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CPO Science Foundations of Physics: Unit 7, Chapter 20
CPO Science Foundations of Physics: Unit 7, Chapter 20
Unit 7, Chapter 20
Chapter 20 Objectives
1. Recognize and sketch examples of series and parallel circuits. 2. Describe a short circuit and why a short circuit may be a dangerous hazard. 3. Calculate the current in a series or parallel circuit containing up to three resistances. 4. Calculate the total resistance of a circuit by combining series or parallel resistances. 5. Describe the differences between AC and DC electricity. 6. Calculate the power used in an AC or DC circuit from the current and voltage.
Rtotal = R1 + R2 + R3...
Total resistance (ohms) Individual resistances (W)
How much current flows in a circuit with a 1.5-volt battery and three 1 ohm resistances (bulbs) in series?
The amount of current in each branch in a parallel circuit is not necessarily the same.
The resistance in each branch determines the current in that branch.
Two bulbs with different resistances are connected in parallel to batteries with a total voltage of 3 volts. Calculate the total current supplied by the battery.
A circuit contains a 2 ohm resistor and a 4 ohm resistor in parallel. Calculate the total resistance of the circuit.
V0 =
Output voltage (volts)
R1 Vi R1 + R 2
resistor ratio (W) Input voltage (volts)
For very complex circuits, electrical engineers use computer programs that can rapidly solve equations for the circuit using Kirchhoffs laws.
20.3 Power
Voltage (volts) Power (watts)
P = VI
Current (amps)
Your electric company charges 14 cents per kilowatt-hour. Your coffee maker has a power rating of 1,050 watts. How much does it cost to use the coffee maker one hour per day for a month?
AC electricity is usually identified by the average voltage, (120 VAC) not the peak voltage.
P = VI x pf
power factor 0-100%