Determining the Resistance of an Electric Blanket

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SUMMARY

The resistance of a typical electric blanket consuming 50 watts of power when plugged into a standard 240V power outlet is calculated to be 1152 ohms. The calculation is based on the formula R = V/I, where I is derived from the power equation P = V x I. The current (I) is determined to be approximately 0.2083 A, leading to the conclusion that R = 240V / 0.2083 A results in a resistance of 1152 ohms. This value is consistent with the expected resistance for household appliances.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Ohm's Law
  • Familiarity with power equations (P = V x I)
  • Basic knowledge of electrical units (voltage, current, resistance)
  • Ability to perform algebraic calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of resistance in household appliances
  • Learn about the relationship between power, voltage, and current in AC circuits
  • Explore the impact of resistance on energy efficiency in electrical devices
  • Investigate safety standards for electrical appliances and their resistance ratings
USEFUL FOR

Students studying electrical engineering, electricians, and anyone interested in understanding the electrical characteristics of household appliances.

Johny Prime
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Homework Statement


A typical electric blanket consumes 50 W of power when operating. What is the overall resistance of the blanket if it is designed to be plugged into a standard powerpoint?
Power = 50 watts
Voltage = 240 v (standard powerpoint)

Homework Equations


I (current) = Voltage/ Resistance
Power = V x I

The Attempt at a Solution


So we are trying to find the overall resistance:
R = V/I
R = 240/I
P/V = I ?
50/240 = I ?
I = 0.2083333 (I don't think that looks right)
So then, R= 240/0.2083333
R= 1152??
Resistance is 1152 ohms?
These answers seem very strange to me and I am uncertain as to whether my logic is sound or not.
If my logic is incorrect, could someone inform me of the logic of the correct way? Thanks!
 
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It is correct.
Why does it seem strange to you?
 
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mfb said:
It is correct.
Why does it seem strange to you?
I wasn't sure because all the questions I had done before this had very small resistance (like 6), and I wasn't sure what an actual appliance might have in terms of resistance. Thanks for the confirmation!
 

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