Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the maximum current that can be drawn from a battery, specifically considering the effects of internal resistance and the implications of connecting resistors in parallel. Participants explore theoretical limits, practical considerations, and the behavior of batteries under different conditions.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant suggests that a battery with 1 ohm internal resistance and 9 V can produce a maximum current of 9 amps when connected to wires with zero resistance.
- Another participant argues that connecting a 0.5 ohm resistor in parallel does not allow for surpassing the maximum current, as the internal resistance limits the current.
- Some participants propose that the maximum current can be calculated as voltage divided by internal resistance, but this may not account for all factors.
- A later reply questions the simplification of internal resistance, noting that higher loads can affect the battery's emf due to temperature changes from power dissipation.
- Participants mention that batteries are rated for short circuit current, but they are not designed to be short-circuited.
- Discussion includes the behavior of PV cells, which are characterized by open circuit voltage and short circuit current, with some participants noting that high currents can be managed in specific applications.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the implications of internal resistance and the behavior of batteries under load. There is no consensus on whether the maximum current can be exceeded or how internal resistance should be interpreted in practical scenarios.
Contextual Notes
Limitations include the assumption that internal resistance can be treated as a simple series resistance, and the discussion does not resolve how temperature affects emf in batteries under high current conditions.