Finding power consumed by an electric razor

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the power consumed by a 21 W, 120 V AC electric razor when connected to a 220 V AC supply in Europe. The key formula used is P=IV, and the resistance of the razor remains constant despite the voltage change. Participants clarified that the correct approach involves applying the formula P = ΔV²/R for both voltage scenarios, leading to the conclusion that the razor will draw excessive power and potentially become damaged.

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  • Understanding of Ohm's Law (P=IV)
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  • Familiarity with voltage and resistance concepts
  • Basic grasp of AC power systems
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A tourist takes his 21 W, 120 V AC razor to Europe, finds a special adapter, and plugs it into 220 V AC. What power does the razor consume as it goes up in smoke?


P=IV=deltaVsquared/R


attempt at solution:
I used P=IV for 120 V to find the current, and using that number, plugged the numbers into the equation for 220V. The hint for the problem says that the resistance doesn't change for the razor in Europe... but I don't know how that helps. I feel like I'm missing something very easy but I'm stuck.
 
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Welcome to the PF. The key here is that the resistance doesn't change. I don't think you want to write:

P = \frac{\Delta {V^2}}{R}

Instead, write two equations, one for the US and one for smokey Europe...
 
Last edited:
Oh man that was easy.. I'm a little embarrassed. Thanks for the help!
 
Hey seems like you guys figured it out. Can you help me. I'm stuck on the same question and I don't know what to do.
 

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