Solving Electric Circuit Current & Power: Peak & Min Values

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around an electric circuit problem involving current, power dissipation in a resistor, and the calculation of time averages. The original poster seeks to derive expressions for power and its peak and minimum values based on the current function provided.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the expression for power in terms of current and resistance, with some questioning the need for integration over time due to the time-dependent nature of current. There are attempts to differentiate power to find its extrema, and discussions about the conditions for maximum and minimum power values.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights regarding the conditions for maximum and minimum power, while others have raised questions about the time average of voltage across an inductance and its implications. The conversation reflects a mix of confirmations and inquiries, indicating an ongoing exploration of the concepts involved.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the complexities of power calculations in AC circuits, including the implications of time-varying current and the definitions of time averages. There is mention of specific values and conditions that may influence the calculations, but no consensus has been reached on all aspects of the problem.

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Homework Statement



Given that the current in an electric circuit is I = Iocoswt and that the current passes through a resistance R

1) give an expression for P(t) power dissipated in the resistance. What are the peak and minimum values of P?

Then it defines the time average over 1 cycle as 1/T (integral from 0 to T) of f(t) dt where T=2pi/w

It asks us to find time average of I and P and illustrate the relevant integrals graphically

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Ok so I think P(t) = integral from 0 to t of R Io^2 cos^2wt dt?

Now I am stuck :P How do i find maximum and minimum values of P?

to i differentiate using fundamental theorem to say that P'=RIo^2cos^2 wt?

Then find where this is maximum and minimum?

Also any ideas for the next part? thanks>
 
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P is just I^2*R. You're thinking of energy.
 


But I is a function of t, so don't you have to integrate over time? ahh no i guess not.
 


Ok great. Thanks for your help...

So could you verify that the power is at max/min where sin2wt = 0...so this implies that t=0,pi/2w, pi/w etc...

so maximum value of power is Io^2 R

minimum is 0?

thanks...
 


anyone?
 


Ok all this done now :)

Just on the last part of the q..

asks me to work out the time average of <I V' > where V' is the voltage across an inductance L i.e. L dI/dt..

I get the solution to be 0..

why is this?
 

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