How to Calculate Power Dissipation in Resistors?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating power dissipation in resistors based on given current values and resistance. Participants explore different methods and formulas for determining power, including the use of current squared times resistance.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents calculated power dissipation values for three resistors using the formula I^2/R, but notes that one current is negative.
  • Another participant suggests using the formula I*V=watts and clarifies that V=I*R.
  • There is a correction regarding the calculation method, emphasizing that power should be calculated using p = I^2 * R, indicating multiplication rather than division.
  • Subsequent posts confirm the corrected calculations for power dissipation using the appropriate formula.
  • One participant expresses gratitude for the assistance received in the discussion.
  • Another participant requests clarification on how the initial current values were derived.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on the initial method of calculation, as participants correct and refine earlier claims regarding the use of division versus multiplication in the power formula. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the derivation of the current values.

Contextual Notes

Some calculations involve negative current values, which raises questions about the interpretation of power dissipation in resistors. The discussion does not resolve the implications of negative currents in this context.

charger9198
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Calculate the power dissipated in R1, R2 and R



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Fig1.jpg




Previously i worked out the Current I1, I2 and I3 so i planned to use this to calculate the power dissipated;

For current i got;

I1= 0.8409 A
I2= -0.4545 A
I3= 0.39 A

I used I^2/R to get the following answers

R1 = 0.8409^2 / 1 = 0.7071 W
R2 = -0.4545^2 / 2 = -0.4131 W
R3 = 0.39^2 / 3 = 0.4563 W
 
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Think about these I*V=watts V=I*R
 
charger9198 said:
R1 = 0.8409^2 / 1 = 0.7071 W
R2 = -0.4545^2 / 2 = -0.4131 W
R3 = 0.39^2 / 3 = 0.4563 W

A negative real number squared gives a positive result!
 
Of course...

R1 = 0.8409^2 / 1 = 0.7071 W
R2 = -0.4545^2 / 2 = 0.2066 W
R3 = 0.39^2 / 3 = 0.4563 W

Am i on the right lines with this?
 
You were right first time I should have checked but your notation fooled me / usually means divide * is multiply.
 
First, the power is p = V2/R or p = I2R. Since you are using currents and resistances the second equation applies here. So you should be MULTIPLYING the square of the currents by the resistance values, not dividing as you've indicated. Recheck the results with this in mind.
 
so

p=(I^2)R

thus

(0.8409^2)*1 = 0.70711 W
(-0.4545^2)*2 = 0.41314 W
(0.39^2)*3 = 0.4563 W

Hopefully that's it!
 
charger9198 said:
so

p=(I^2)R

thus

(0.8409^2)*1 = 0.70711 W
(-0.4545^2)*2 = 0.41314 W
(0.39^2)*3 = 0.4563 W

Hopefully that's it!

Yes, that looks good for the given resistances and currents.
 
Thanks for your help
 
  • #10
charger, can you show me how you worked out those currents?
 
  • #11
stemurdo said:
charger, can you show me how you worked out those currents?
Discussion of this circuit in this thread.
 

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