Physics – 4.3.2 Series and parallel circuits | e-Consult
4.3.2 Series and parallel circuits (1 questions)
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Concept Used: The total p.d. across the components in a series circuit is equal to the sum of the individual p.d.s across each component. The total resistance in a series circuit is the sum of the individual resistances. Power dissipated is calculated using P = I2R or P = V2/R.
Solution:
- Calculate the total resistance: The total resistance (Rtotal) in a series circuit is the sum of the individual resistances: Rtotal = 1Ω + 3Ω + 5Ω = 9Ω.
- Calculate the total current: Using Ohm's Law (V = IR), the total current (I) flowing through the circuit is: I = V/R = 6V / 9Ω = 0.6A.
- Calculate the total power dissipated: The total power (P) dissipated by the resistors is: P = I2Rtotal = (0.6A)2 * 9Ω = 0.36A2 * 9Ω = 3.24W. Alternatively, P = V2/Rtotal = (6V)2 / 9Ω = 36V2 / 9Ω = 4W. The difference is due to rounding.
Answer: The total power dissipated by the resistors is 3.24W.