Power transfer and impedence matching.

AI Thread Summary
Power transfer in a circuit is maximized when the load resistance equals the internal resistance of the source due to optimal energy conversion. At low load resistance, power transfer is limited because current remains constant, resulting in minimal power output. Conversely, at high load resistance, power transfer is also low as voltage remains constant, leading to reduced energy flow. The ideal point for maximum power transfer occurs when the load resistance matches the source resistance, balancing current and voltage for efficient energy transfer. Understanding this principle is crucial for optimizing circuit performance and minimizing heat loss.
duckandcover
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What is the physical explanation for the power transfer in a circuit being maximum when the resistance of the system is equal to the internal resistance?

maybe heat loss?

any help would be appreciated as i understand the mathematical proof but do not know much about the physical causes.
 
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If the resistance of the load R_\mathrm{load} is very low (so that the current I is approximately constant through the load and independent of R_\mathrm{load}), then the power transfer I^2R_\mathrm{load} will be small. If the resistance of the load is very high (so that the voltage V is approximately constant across the load and independent of R_\mathrm{load}), then the power transfer V^2/R_\mathrm{load} will be small. In between these two extremes is a happy medium, specifically at R_\mathrm{load}=R_\mathrm{source}.
 

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