Find the average power delivered by the voltage source

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the average power delivered by a voltage source in an AC circuit, focusing on the use of impedance and the distinction between RMS and peak voltage values. Participants explore various approaches to the problem, including the application of power equations and the interpretation of voltage as either RMS or peak values.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant calculates the total impedance and derives the average power using the formula P = 1/2 Vm*Im*cos(θv - θi), resulting in a complex power value.
  • Another participant suggests that average power should be the product of average voltage and average current, indicating a different interpretation of the problem.
  • Several participants assert that power does not have an imaginary component and propose using the real part of the impedance to find average power.
  • There is confusion regarding the interpretation of the voltage source as either RMS or peak voltage, with differing opinions on whether 240 V is RMS or peak amplitude.
  • Some participants emphasize the importance of context in understanding the voltage representation, referencing conventions in AC power calculations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the correct approach to calculating average power, with no consensus reached on whether to treat the voltage as RMS or peak. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the correct interpretation of the voltage source and the appropriate method for calculating average power.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the assumptions made about the voltage representation and the definitions of RMS versus peak values. The discussion highlights the need for clarity in the problem statement regarding these terms.

jkface
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Homework Statement


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Homework Equations


P = 1/2 Vm*Im*cos(θv - θi)


The Attempt at a Solution


First I added all the impedance values to find the total impedance seen by the source.

Zt = j10 + (50 || 20 + j10) = 15 +j5 Ω

Now since the circuit is not purely resistive, I can't just go Vrms^2 / R to find the average power. So I divided 240 by the total impedance to find I.

I = 240 / (15 + j5) = 8 - j8 A (rms)

The answer I get is as follows.

P = 1/2 240*(8-j8)*cos(45°) = 678.8 - j678.8 W

Am I correct in how i solved the problem? Thanks in advance.
 
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Oh - I thought the average power would be the product of the average voltage and the average current.
But context is important and you are the one doing the course.
 
Power does not have a j component.
Power = i^2 * Re{Zt} so find i = V/|Zt|.
 
I think you forgot to add the first j10 term:
Zt = j10 + (50 || (20 + j10)) = ?

This:
P = 1/2 Vm*Im*cos(θv - θi)

gives you the real/average power when Vm and I am are the peak amplitudes (real number) of the voltage and current, respectively.

If 240 V is the RMS amplitude of the voltage source, you have:
P = 1/2*sqrt(2)*Vrms*sqrt(2)*Irms*(θv - θi) = Vrms*Irms*(θv - θi)
 
Last edited:
rude man said:
Power does not have a j component.
Power = i^2 * Re{Zt} so find i = V/|Zt|.

I think if you multiply 1/2 to the power equation this approach would be correct. but why do you think I can't get the same answer when I try to solve the problem like how I stated in the problem?

Since Average Power = 1/2 Vm*Im*cos(θv - θi), and I = 8 - j8 = 11.3∠-45°, can't I just go

(1/2)*240*11.3*cos(0-(-45)°)?

This would give 958.8 W while your method gives 2840.9 W.
 
milesyoung said:
I think you forgot to add the first j10 term:
Zt = j10 + (50 || (20 + j10)) = ?

This:
P = 1/2 Vm*Im*cos(θv - θi)

gives you the real/average power when Vm and I am are the peak amplitudes (real number) of the voltage and current, respectively.

If 240 V is the RMS amplitude of the voltage source, you have:
P = 1/2*sqrt(2)*Vrms*sqrt(2)*Irms*(θv - θi) = Vrms*Irms*(θv - θi)

I'm confused. Isn't Vm (not V rms) 240 V?
 
Last edited:
jkface said:
I'm confused. Isn't Vm (not V rms) 240 V?

No. V is always in rms unless specifically contraindicated.

If it said 240sin(wt) V then yes.
 
rude man said:
No. V is always in rms unless specifically contraindicated.

If it said 240sin(wt) V then yes.

The original problem states the voltage source privodes 240∠0° V. Since this is a complex number isn't it the same thing as saying 240cos(wt) V (hence Vm = 240V) ?
 
jkface said:
The original problem states the voltage source privodes 240∠0° V. Since this is a complex number isn't it the same thing as saying 240cos(wt) V (hence Vm = 240V) ?

<br /> 240 \angle 0^\circ = 240 e^{j 0}<br />
It's a constant, there's no time dependency. In your book there should be a section that explains what the convention for phasor magnitude is. It's usually the RMS amplitude of the sinusoidal function unless otherwise noted, especially in AC power, but your book might differ.
 

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