Power dissipation in resistors

In summary, the power dissipated in R1, R2, and R3 can be calculated using the formula P = I^2R, where I is the current and R is the resistance. By using the values of current I1, I2, and I3 previously calculated, we can determine that R1 dissipates 0.7071 W, R2 dissipates 0.2066 W, and R3 dissipates 0.4563 W. It is important to note that when squaring a negative number, the result is positive. The correct notation for calculating power is P = I^2R or P = V^2/R. It is important to double check the calculations to ensure accuracy.
  • #1
charger9198
60
0
Calculate the power dissipated in R1, R2 and R



[/b]
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
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Think about these I*V=watts V=I*R
 
  • #3
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!
 
  • #4
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?
 
  • #5
You were right first time I should have checked but your notation fooled me / usually means divide * is multiply.
 
  • #6
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.
 
  • #7
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!
 
  • #8
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.
 
  • #9
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.
 

1. What is power dissipation in resistors?

Power dissipation in resistors refers to the amount of heat energy that is released when an electric current flows through a resistor. This heat energy is dissipated or lost as the resistor converts electrical energy into thermal energy.

2. How is power dissipation calculated in resistors?

The power dissipation in a resistor can be calculated using the formula P=I^2*R, where P is the power dissipation in watts, I is the current passing through the resistor in amperes, and R is the resistance of the resistor in ohms.

3. What factors affect power dissipation in resistors?

The main factors that affect power dissipation in resistors are the current passing through the resistor, the resistance of the resistor, and the operating temperature. Higher current and resistance values and higher operating temperatures will result in higher power dissipation.

4. How does power dissipation affect the performance of a resistor?

Excessive power dissipation can cause a resistor to overheat, which can lead to changes in its resistance values and potentially damage the resistor. It can also affect the overall performance of a circuit by reducing the efficiency of energy transfer and potentially causing malfunctions.

5. How can power dissipation be minimized in resistors?

To minimize power dissipation in resistors, it is important to use resistors with appropriate power ratings for the given circuit. Additionally, using resistors with higher power ratings or multiple resistors in parallel can help distribute the heat and reduce the load on each individual resistor. Keeping the operating temperature within a safe range can also help minimize power dissipation.

Similar threads

  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
26
Views
2K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
900
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
22
Views
2K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
12
Views
1K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
816
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
Back
Top