Calculating Time Constant in R-L Circuits

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The discussion focuses on demonstrating that the ratio of resistance (R) to inductance (L) in an R-L circuit has units of time. Participants suggest breaking down R and L into their fundamental units to clarify this relationship. The key point is to use circuit equations to calculate the time constant, emphasizing that in series circuits, the same current flows through both components. Participants encourage using expressions for current related to R and L for calculations. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the underlying principles of R-L circuits to derive the time constant accurately.
CollectiveRocker
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Electricity in a R-L circuit!

How do I show that R/L has units of time? Do I take the deriviative or what?
 
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Go by the basic definitions of resistance and inductance and "break them down into the fundamental units".
 
Well, I think the point of the problem is to use the ratio and plug in some of the circuit equations. I'm not sure if this is for a grade or what, so I won't explicity say which equations. Just remember that for R and L in series, only one current goes through them. You have expressions for current in terms of R and L...plug and chug.
 
Thread 'Correct statement about size of wire to produce larger extension'
The answer is (B) but I don't really understand why. Based on formula of Young Modulus: $$x=\frac{FL}{AE}$$ The second wire made of the same material so it means they have same Young Modulus. Larger extension means larger value of ##x## so to get larger value of ##x## we can increase ##F## and ##L## and decrease ##A## I am not sure whether there is change in ##F## for first and second wire so I will just assume ##F## does not change. It leaves (B) and (C) as possible options so why is (C)...

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