Which Battery Configuration Produces More Power?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on comparing the power output of two battery configurations: series and parallel. Two 1.5V batteries with an internal resistance of 3 Ohms each are analyzed with a 50 Ohm resistor in the circuit. The series configuration yields a higher voltage and current, resulting in greater power output. However, the parallel configuration, while producing lower current, minimizes power loss due to reduced current flow through the internal resistance of the batteries.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Ohm's Law
  • Knowledge of series and parallel circuits
  • Familiarity with power calculations in electrical circuits
  • Basic concepts of internal resistance in batteries
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate power output for both series and parallel configurations using the formula P = V^2 / R.
  • Explore the impact of internal resistance on battery performance in circuits.
  • Investigate scenarios where parallel configurations may be advantageous despite lower current.
  • Learn about battery management systems and their role in optimizing power output.
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Electrical engineers, physics students, and hobbyists interested in circuit design and battery performance optimization.

orthovector
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Homework Statement


2 batteries both 1.5V
Each battery has internal resistance, r=3 Ohms.
one Resistor R=50 ohms is in the circuit.

the first circuit is arranged with the two batteries in Series.

the second configuration puts the two batteries in parallel arrangement.Which configuration produces more Power?

It's obvious that the series configuration will produce more potential and more current through the Resistor, R.

However, the parallel configuration can avoid more Power loss due to the lower current.

I'm not sure what is the advantage of arranging 2 batteries in the parallel configuration when this configuration produces less current to the Resistor R than the series configuration.
 
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any ideas?
 
orthovector said:

Homework Statement


2 batteries both 1.5V
Each battery has internal resistance, r=3 Ohms.
one Resistor R=50 ohms is in the circuit.

the first circuit is arranged with the two batteries in Series.

the second configuration puts the two batteries in parallel arrangement.


Which configuration produces more Power?

It's obvious that the series configuration will produce more potential and more current through the Resistor, R.

However, the parallel configuration can avoid more Power loss due to the lower current.

I'm not sure what is the advantage of arranging 2 batteries in the parallel configuration when this configuration produces less current to the Resistor R than the series configuration.

You are given the numbers, so you can calculate the powers involved. Please show your quantitative work and tell us what answer that shows.
 

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