Current in the curcuit from watts and volts

AI Thread Summary
A circuit with a 50 V battery and three 25 W resistors, one in series and two in parallel, is analyzed to find the current. The user initially calculates the equivalent resistance using power and voltage, resulting in a total resistance of 150 ohms. The current is then determined using Ohm's law, yielding 0.8 Amps. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding the relationship between power, voltage, and resistance in circuits. Clarification is sought on how to correctly apply these principles to solve the problem effectively.
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Homework Statement



A circuit has a 50 V battery, and 3 resistors. they are all 25 Watts, 1 is in series, 2 are parallel. Find the current of the circuit.

Homework Equations



V=IR
P=IV

The Attempt at a Solution



I know how to do these fine when I'm given the resistances or the amperages, but I'm having problems with this style.

I've attempted this a few different ways. I tried to find the equalizing resistance using: P=v^2/R
25=50^2/R
R=100 ohms.

then 1/100 + 1/100 = 1/Rparallel = 50. 50+100=150. to find the equalizing resistance, and then using:
V=IR
120=I*150
I= .8 Amps.

I'm clearly missing something when I'm working with Watts... can someone please walk me through how to actually do this. it's very urgent...
 
Last edited:
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The 3 resistors together use 25 + 25 + 25 = 75 watts.

This must come from the battery, so how much current is being drawn?

After that it is easy.

Work out each resistor knowing the power in it and the current (P=I*I*R). The two in parallel have the same resistance but you need to see why this has to be the case.
 
thanks
 
Actually, the question doesn't ask for the size of the resistors or the voltage across them. But it would be excellent practice for you to work them out.
They come out easily.
 
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