Total Resistance of Parallel Wires: Copper & Aluminum

In summary, two 1275m long wires, one copper and one aluminum, are connected in parallel. The total resistance of the wires at 25 C, 105 C, and -40 C can be found using the equation 1/Rt=1/Ra+1/Rc, where R is calculated using resistivity, length, and cross-sectional area. The resistivity of each material will be at a specific temperature, and a coefficient of temperature must be incorporated into the calculations.
  • #1
talaroue
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0

Homework Statement



Two 1275m long wires are connected in parallel. One conductor is copper at 1.11mm in diameter and the other is aluminum at 2.23 mm in diameter. Find the total resistance of wires at 25 C, at 105 C, and minus 40 C.


Homework Equations



1/Rt=1/Ra+1/Rc
R=resistivity*L/A

The Attempt at a Solution



I thought I would just look up the resistivity and plug into the equation above...but then how do I incorporate temperature?
 
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  • #2
The resistivity listed will be at some temperature, typically 25C (room temp.). There will also be a coefficient of temperature, where the resistivity increases with temperature. You will need to find that for each material, and incorporate it into your calculations.
 
  • #3
O ok thank you. That was not in my notes!
 

What is the total resistance of parallel wires made of copper and aluminum?

The total resistance of parallel wires made of copper and aluminum can be calculated using the formula Rtotal = (Rcopper x Raluminum) / (Rcopper + Raluminum), where Rcopper and Raluminum are the individual resistances of the copper and aluminum wires, respectively.

How does the resistance of copper and aluminum wires compare?

Copper has a lower resistance compared to aluminum. This means that for the same length and thickness, copper wires will have a lower resistance than aluminum wires. This is due to copper having a higher conductivity compared to aluminum.

Why is copper used more often than aluminum in electrical wiring?

Copper is used more often than aluminum in electrical wiring because of its lower resistance, higher conductivity, and better corrosion resistance. This means that copper wires can carry more current and have less energy loss compared to aluminum wires.

Can copper and aluminum wires be used together in a parallel circuit?

Yes, copper and aluminum wires can be used together in a parallel circuit. However, it is important to consider the difference in resistance between the two materials and calculate the total resistance accordingly.

How does temperature affect the resistance of copper and aluminum wires?

The resistance of copper and aluminum wires increases as the temperature increases. However, aluminum is more affected by temperature changes compared to copper. This is another reason why copper is preferred in electrical wiring as it can maintain a more stable resistance in varying temperatures.

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