Calculating Max Voltage Across Resistor Network

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a network of resistors, specifically a combination of a 2.8k-ohm and a 2.1k-ohm resistor in parallel, which is then connected in series with a 1.8k-ohm resistor. The task is to determine the maximum voltage that can be applied across the entire network, given that each resistor is rated at 0.5W.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the implications of the power rating for each resistor and how it relates to voltage. There is an exploration of the formulas for power in resistors, including P=V^2/R and P=I^2R. Some participants express uncertainty about how to apply these formulas to find individual maximum voltages.

Discussion Status

Some guidance has been provided regarding the use of power equations to derive maximum voltage and current for each resistor. Participants are exploring the relationships between power, voltage, and resistance, and are attempting to connect these concepts to the overall problem without reaching a consensus on the final approach.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted uncertainty regarding how to handle the individual maximum voltages derived from the power ratings, as well as the overall configuration of the resistors in the circuit.

Jstew
Messages
18
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


A 2.8k-ohm and a 2.1k-ohm ersistor are connected in parallel; this combination is connected in series with a 1.8k-ohm resistor. If each resistor is rated at .5W, what is the maximum voltage that can be applied across the whole network?


Homework Equations


Ohm's Law, P=IV


The Attempt at a Solution


I don't even know where to start with this problem.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
When they say that each resistor is rated at 0.5 W, what information can you get from that for each resistor? Remember the expressions for power in a resistor.
 
P=V^2/R, so V^2=R/2 I don't know what to do with these individual maximum voltages.
 
You have P= V^2 / R, and also P = I^2 R for Ohm's law resistors. Since you know the maximum power that each resistor can handle, these give you the maximum voltage and maximum current for each resistor.

So with these constraints, solve the problem as a normal combination of resistor problems, just with an unkown voltage. Then you can use the above constraint to find that maximum voltage for the entire circuit.
 

Similar threads

Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
7K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
6K