The circuit of FIGURE has two resistors, with R1>R2. Which of the two resistors dissipates the larger amount of power? Explain.

Short Answer

Expert verified

The resistor that dissipates the most energy is theR2.

Step by step solution

01

Step 1. Given information

The circuit that contains two resistors has relation of R1>R2

02

Step 2. Identify the resistor that dissipates the most power.

The expression for power is,

P=v2R

where, Vis the voltage and Ris the resistance.

In the diagram below, the resistors are linked in parallel:

The two resistances R1and R2are coupled in a parallel combination in this diagram. We know that when resistances are coupled in a parallel configuration, the potential difference between them is the same.

Thus can deduce from the preceding calculation of power that power is inversely related to resistance.

The power dissipated through the resistor decreases as the resistance increases, and vice versa.

R1>R2is the specified condition.

Because the resistor R1has a greater value, the power wasted through it will be reduced.

As a result, the power lost through the resistance R2will be greater.

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