What Is the Potential Difference Across Three Series Resistors?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the potential difference across three series resistors with values of 21Ω, 43Ω, and 73Ω, through which a current of 0.55 A flows. The equivalent resistance is correctly calculated as 137Ω. To find the potential difference, users are advised to apply Ohm's Law (V = IR), where V represents voltage, I is the current, and R is the total resistance. The total potential difference across the resistors can be determined by multiplying the total resistance by the current.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Ohm's Law (V = IR)
  • Knowledge of series circuits and equivalent resistance
  • Familiarity with units of measurement: volts, amps, and ohms
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Ohm's Law in series circuits
  • Learn how to calculate equivalent resistance in series configurations
  • Explore practical examples of voltage calculations in electrical circuits
  • Review the relationship between current, voltage, and resistance in electrical engineering
USEFUL FOR

Students studying electrical engineering, physics learners, and anyone needing to understand the principles of series circuits and Ohm's Law.

name_ask17
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Homework Statement


Three resistors, 21, 43, and 73 , are connected in series, and a 0.55 A current passes through them. What is
(a) the equivalent resistance and
(b) the potential difference across the three resistors?



Homework Equations


i tried to use EPE/q by putting the equivalent resistors/1.6E-6 charge. i don't think this is right though :/



The Attempt at a Solution


I got a as 137 and that is correct but i can't seem to get part b.
 
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You want Ohm's Law. Look it up!
 
v=IR, but how does that help me find potential difference?
 
name_ask17 said:
v=IR, but how does that help me find potential difference?

What do the variables in the formula represent?
 
volts=resistance(current)
is potential difference under volts?...because i tried 11*25 but that was marked incorrect by my online homework
 
Potential difference is given in volts.
Current is given in Amps.
Resistance is given in Ohms.

You have the resistance and the current. Find the voltage.
 
what is my current?
and do i use the the equivalent capacity as resistance?
 
(b) each of the three resistors or across all of them together?
If it is the later: delta V = IRtotal

** the current is the same through each of them and all of them (connection in series).
 
the question just says the potential difference across the three resistors; so i think it might be the total. but i am still confused on which part is the current
 
  • #10
name_ask17 said:
the question just says the potential difference across the three resistors; so i think it might be the total. but i am still confused on which part is the current

It is explicitly stated in the problem.
 
  • #11
"I" is the current.
In your case: 0.55 A i.e. 0.55 Ampere (a unit of electric current).

Your question suggests you need to go back to your notebook/coursebook and reading that chapter again (Ohm's Law in a series circuit) and mostly looking at the examples and the implementation of the law.

good luck.
 
  • #12
YYYEESSS!. thank YOU.
also thanks for putting up w/me thru this problem
i was making it harder than it is
 

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