How to Rearrange the Formula to Find Load Resistance?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around rearranging a formula to find load resistance (RL) given a specific power (PL) in a circuit. The context is primarily homework-related, focusing on the application of algebraic manipulation and the quadratic formula in electrical engineering.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a formula for power in terms of load resistance and internal resistance, seeking assistance in rearranging it to isolate RL.
  • Another participant suggests expanding the denominator and rearranging the equation into a standard quadratic form, indicating the use of the quadratic formula for solving.
  • A subsequent post provides a specific quadratic equation derived from the initial formula but expresses confusion regarding the correct application of the quadratic formula and the choice of voltage (load voltage vs. supply voltage).
  • Another participant corrects the algebraic steps and emphasizes the importance of multiplying through by the denominator before expanding and rearranging the equation.
  • Finally, one participant reports successfully obtaining the correct answer after following the guidance provided.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion shows a progression from confusion to resolution, with some disagreement on the algebraic manipulation initially, but ultimately one participant confirms they found the correct answer.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved aspects regarding the choice of voltage to use in the calculations, as well as potential algebraic errors in the initial attempts that were not fully clarified.

Kobayashi
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[SOLVED] Calculate Load Resistance

Homework Statement


Find RL if PL is 90W.


Homework Equations


PL= ((V^2)*(RL))/((RL+r)^2)


The Attempt at a Solution


I calculated the internal resistance to be 5 Ohms on my circuit with a supply voltage of 100V

So, 90W = ((100^2) * (RL))/((RL + 5)^2)

From this equation how do I rearrage the formula to get the Load Resistance?
 
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Expand the square in the denominator, cross multiply it to the left side. Collect the linear terms (linear in RL) onto the left side, so the right is zero. This is now a standard quadratic equation, apply the quadratic formula to solve.
 
So,

R^2 + 2Rr + r^2 + 90 - (V^2*R)

Becomes,

R^2 + 10R + 115 - 10000R =0

R^2 + 9990R + 115 = 0

From this I still can't get the correct answer when using the quadratic formula. Is it the load voltage or the supply voltage you use in this case? The two answers should be 100.75 Ohms and 0.25 Ohms. Any idea where I'm going wrong?
 
You are messing up the algebra.

Starting with your first equation:

[tex]P_L= \frac{V^2R_L}{(R_L+r)^2}[/tex]

You need to multiply through by the denominator so you get

[tex]P_L(R_L+r)^2 = V^2R_L[/tex]

Now expand the bracket, and then multiply through by [tex]P_L[/tex]. Group like terms and then use the quadratic formula.

Use the supply voltage.
 
Thanks, I now managed to get the correct answer.
 

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