Why in an electric circuit with only a generator the resistance R=infinity?

In summary, the reason an electric circuit with only a generator has an infinite resistance is because without a completed circuit, there is no current flowing. This is simplified for teaching purposes, as in reality the resistance is very high but not truly infinite. A diagram would be helpful in understanding the question more clearly.
  • #1
samy4408
62
9
Why in an electric circuit with only a generator the resistance R=infinity?

[Newbie's post edited by a Mentor to delete extraneous embellishment]
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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  • #2
Because you don't have a completed circuit. Just an open. Of course, in reality the resistance isn't infinite, just very, very high. But we call it infinite to simplify things when teaching things to students.

Also, there's no need to throw half a dozen question marks into a sentence. One will suffice.
 
  • #3
samy4408 said:
Why in an electric circuit with only a generator the resistance R=infinity?

[Newbie's post edited by a Mentor to delete extraneous embellishment]

Because the current is zero.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #4
samy4408 said:
Why in an electric circuit with only a generator the resistance R=infinity?
What's "a generator" in your question? Can you post a schematic?
 
  • #5
As worded, the question implies to me zero resistance, not infinite. So yeah, we need a diagram.
 

1. Why does the resistance R=infinity in an electric circuit with only a generator?

The resistance R=infinity in an electric circuit with only a generator because there is no load or component in the circuit that can consume or dissipate the electrical energy produced by the generator. This results in an open circuit, where there is no current flow and the resistance is effectively infinite.

2. Can a circuit with only a generator function properly with an infinite resistance?

No, a circuit with only a generator cannot function properly with an infinite resistance. In order for a circuit to function, there needs to be a complete loop for the current to flow through. With an infinite resistance, there is no complete loop and therefore, no current flow.

3. Is there any practical application for a circuit with only a generator and infinite resistance?

No, there is no practical application for a circuit with only a generator and infinite resistance. In order for a circuit to be useful, there needs to be a load or component that can consume or dissipate the electrical energy produced by the generator. Without this, the circuit serves no purpose.

4. Can the resistance R=infinity ever change in a circuit with only a generator?

No, the resistance R=infinity cannot change in a circuit with only a generator. The resistance is determined by the components in the circuit, and without any components, the resistance will always be infinite.

5. How does the resistance R=infinity affect the voltage and current in a circuit with only a generator?

In a circuit with only a generator and infinite resistance, there is no current flow and therefore, no voltage drop across the resistance. This means that the voltage produced by the generator will be equal to the voltage across the entire circuit. However, since there is no current flow, the voltage will not be able to power any devices or components in the circuit.

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