Calculate the current being drawn from a battery

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    Battery Current
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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the current drawn from a battery using Ohm's Law and power formulas. Participants clarify that resistance is measured in ohms, while current is measured in amps. The key formulas mentioned include P = V^2/R for power and I = P/E for current calculation. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding voltage (E) and resistance (R) to accurately determine current (I).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Ohm's Law
  • Familiarity with electrical units: volts, amps, and ohms
  • Knowledge of power calculations in electrical circuits
  • Basic algebra skills for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to apply Ohm's Law in various circuit scenarios
  • Study the relationship between voltage, current, and resistance in series and parallel circuits
  • Explore advanced power calculation techniques in electrical engineering
  • Investigate practical applications of current measurement tools
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for electrical engineering students, hobbyists working with batteries, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of basic electrical principles and calculations.

qim
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If I have a question asking to calculate the current being drawn from a battery can I, or rather should I, give an answer in Ohms?

I hate electricity...

Thanks and a Happy New Year to you all.

qim
 
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Resistance is measured in ohms. Current is measured in amps.
 
Hi Jim

Thanks, the penny is dropping...

I have been given the voltage and the resistances

So I guess I can work out the total resistance and then use P = V^2/R

and from there P = V/I > I = V/P

Just thinking aloud but I would be grateful if you could confirm that I am on the right track.

Thanks

qim
 
Wouldn't it be easier to use Ohm's Law?

Doug
 
Thanks Doug

"What's that?", you probably heard me say...

Yes, I got it, thanks very much.

qim
 
Originally posted by qim
Hi Jim

Thanks, the penny is dropping...

I have been given the voltage and the resistances

So I guess I can work out the total resistance and then use P = V^2/R

and from there P = V/I > I = V/P

Just thinking aloud but I would be grateful if you could confirm that I am on the right track.

Thanks

qim


Actually, E is more commonly used to symbolize voltage. The unit of measure for voltage(E) is the Volt(V). E = 10V for example. Anyway,

P = E I

So to calculate the current with a given Voltage and Power:

I = \frac{P}{E}

You could save yourself a step and use

I = \frac{E}{R}
 
Last edited:

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