Solving a Series Circuit with Ohm's Law

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a series circuit problem using Ohm's Law, specifically for a 60W lamp connected to a 120V source. The initial calculation for the resistance of the resistor was incorrectly derived as 10.4 ohms using the formula R = V²/P. The correct approach involves calculating the current through the lamp and resistor, leading to a final resistance value of 151 ohms for the resistor after determining the voltage drop across it.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Ohm's Law and its applications
  • Knowledge of electrical power calculations
  • Familiarity with series circuits and voltage drops
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations for electrical calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to calculate current in series circuits using I = P/V
  • Study the implications of voltage drops across components in series
  • Explore advanced applications of Ohm's Law in complex circuits
  • Investigate the relationship between power, voltage, and resistance in electrical systems
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Students studying electrical engineering, educators teaching circuit analysis, and hobbyists working with basic electrical circuits will benefit from this discussion.

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Homework Statement



A 60W lamp is placed in series with a resistor and a 120V source. If the voltage across the lamp is 25V, what is the resitance R of the resistor?

Homework Equations



I derived R= V2/P from ohm's law to solve this problem.

The Attempt at a Solution



R= V2/P
=(25V)2/60W
=10.4 ohms

Is this answer correct? Thank you in advance for your time and help.
 
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That's the resistance of the lamp.
Remember the current in the lamp an the resistor is the same, what's the voltage rop across the resistor?
 
120v - 25v = 95v?
 
I guess I just don't understand what voltage to use and why. :frown:
 
You have 120V total, 25V across the lamp and so (120-25) across the resistor
To work out the resistance you need the current through the resistor
This is the same as the current through the lamp

hint: Power = current * voltage difference
 
I=P/V
=60W/(120V-25V)
=0.63 A

R=V/I
=95V/0.63A
=151 ohms?
 
sounds good
 
Thank you so much for your help! :approve:
 

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