Which resistor gets most power in both series and parallel?

AI Thread Summary
In a circuit with three resistors of 5, 2, and 1 ohms, the power distribution varies between series and parallel configurations. In series, the same current flows through all resistors, while in parallel, each resistor experiences the same voltage. Using Ohm's Law (R=V/I) and the power formula (P=V*I), one can derive different power equations for each configuration. The resistor with the lowest resistance (1 ohm) will dissipate the most power in parallel, while in series, the power distribution depends on the total resistance and the current. Understanding these principles is crucial for analyzing circuit behavior and the function of measuring devices like voltmeters and ammeters.
luice
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three resistors that have values of 5,2,1 ohms, are connected in series and parallel to a battery, which resistor gets most power in both series and parallel?
 
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ok, well what do you know about Ohm's Law and how voltage and current act in a series and in a parallel circuit?
 
hi,
ohms law:- resistance as the ratio of the Voltage to the current.
R=V/I

if resistors are connected in series, the current in all resistors are the same.
if resistors are connected in parallel, the potential difference across them are the same.
 
Hello luice,

luice said:
ohms law:- resistance as the ratio of the Voltage to the current.
R=V/I

if resistors are connected in series, the current in all resistors are the same.
if resistors are connected in parallel, the potential difference across them are the same.

Try to use the definition for electrical power P=V*I together with Ohm's law. You'll get 2 different equations for P, each one represents one of the two given cases. After you've found the answer, can you guess what that means for the characteristics of Voltmeters and Amperemeters?

Regards,

nazzard
 
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