Find current with give volts and kWh

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the average current in a 120 V power line based on a monthly electricity usage of 800 kWh. The context is rooted in electrical power concepts, specifically relating to energy consumption and current calculation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the conversion of kWh to watts and the implications for calculating current. Questions arise about how to derive power from energy usage over time.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into the relationship between kWh and watts, while others have explored the calculation of hourly energy consumption. There is a recognition of the need to clarify the time component in the energy usage.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of understanding the time frame over which the energy consumption occurs, specifically questioning the number of hours in a month to facilitate the conversion from kWh to watts.

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Homework Statement



A typical American family uses 800 kWh of electricity a month.
What is the average current in the 120 V power line to the house?

Homework Equations



P=IV

The Attempt at a Solution



800kW=800000W
800000=120I
I=[tex]\frac{800000}{120}[/tex]

I'm getting this answer as incorrect. I'm not sure what to do from here. Help Please, Thanks!
 
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kWH is a measure of energy = kW (power) * hours (time)
 
so how do I get from kWh to W?
 
1KWh is 1Kw for 1 hour.
If they use a total of 800 kWhours for the whole month, how much do they use each hour?

hint - how many hours in a month?
 
approx. 30.44 days in a month 30.44*24=730.56 hours in a month. 800000Wh/730.56h = 1095 W! oh... lol. DUH! Thanks! :D
 

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