How to Calculate the Length of a Copper Wire Based on Resistance?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the length of a copper wire based on its resistance, specifically comparing a 750ft wire with a resistance of 1.563 ohms to another wire with a resistance of 2.605 ohms. The correct method involves setting up a proportion: 750ft/1.563 = x/2.605. After cross-multiplying and isolating x, the solution is determined to be 1250ft for the second wire. The participants emphasize the importance of correctly manipulating the equation to solve for x.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrical resistance and its relationship to wire length
  • Basic algebra skills for solving proportions
  • Familiarity with units of measurement in electrical engineering
  • Knowledge of copper wire properties, including cross-sectional area
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  • Study the principles of electrical resistance in conductors
  • Learn about the formula for calculating resistance in wires
  • Explore the effects of cross-sectional area on resistance
  • Investigate practical applications of wire length and resistance in electrical circuits
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Electrical engineers, physics students, and anyone involved in electrical circuit design or analysis will benefit from this discussion.

dramaqueen
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a copper wire 750ft long has resistance of 1.563. How long is a copper wire of the same cross-sectional area whose resistance is 2.605. Note: the resistance of these wire is proportional to their length.

attempted to solve:

750ft/1.563=x/2.605
then cross multiply
750 * 2.605 = 1953.750/1.563
= 1250 ft

can someone advise if I am right

thanks
 
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dramaqueen said:
a copper wire 750ft long has resistance of 1.563. How long is a copper wire of the same cross-sectional area whose resistance is 2.605. Note: the resistance of these wire is proportional to their length.

attempted to solve:

750ft/1.563=x/2.605
You have set up the proportion correctly, but don't seem to understand what to do next.
dramaqueen said:
then cross multiply
Your equation above has x in it. Where did it go?
What you want to do is to get x all by itself on one side of the equation. When you do this, you will have solved the equation.

Ignoring the units for the moment, you have 750/1.568 = x/2.605
What operation can you do to both sides of this equation so that x is by itself? DO NOT SAY cross multiply.
 

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