Relation of resistance to power dissipation

This apparent paradox can be explained by understanding the relationship between voltage, current, and resistance in a circuit. In summary, the two equations show that as resistance decreases, the current increases, resulting in a decrease in thermal energy. This is consistent with Ohm's law and the inverse relationship between resistance and current.
  • #1
omari_yousef
1
0
Equation (p=i^2 * R) seems to suggest that the rate of increase of thermal energy in a resistor is reduced if the resistance is made less.

"Eq" : p =v^2/R seems to suggest just the apposite .

How do you reconcile this apparent paradox?
 
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  • #2


omari_yousef said:
Equation (p=i^2 * R) seems to suggest that the rate of increase of thermal energy in a resistor is reduced if the resistance is made less.

"Eq" : p =v^2/R seems to suggest just the apposite .

How do you reconcile this apparent paradox?

You reconcile it by noticing that, if V is constant, then you cannot reduce R without increasing I (ohm's law). If you reduce R by a factor of 2, then you increase I by a factor of 2, which means that, using the first equation, your power changes by a factor of (2^2)/2 = 4/2 = 2.

Using the second equation, your power changes by a factor of 1/(1/2) = 2.
 

Related to Relation of resistance to power dissipation

What is the relation between resistance and power dissipation?

The relation between resistance and power dissipation is that as resistance increases, power dissipation also increases. This is because resistance is the measure of opposition to the flow of electric current, and as the current encounters more resistance, more energy is converted into heat, resulting in higher power dissipation.

How does resistance affect power dissipation in a circuit?

Resistance affects power dissipation in a circuit by causing a voltage drop. When current flows through a resistor, some of the electrical energy is converted into heat, and this energy is dissipated from the circuit. The amount of power dissipated is directly proportional to the resistance in the circuit.

Which factor has a greater impact on power dissipation: resistance or current?

Resistance has a greater impact on power dissipation than current. While both factors play a role in determining the amount of power dissipated in a circuit, resistance has a direct relationship with power dissipation, while current has an indirect relationship. This means that a small change in resistance can have a larger impact on power dissipation than the same change in current.

How can resistance be reduced to decrease power dissipation?

Resistance can be reduced to decrease power dissipation by using materials with lower resistivity, increasing the surface area of the conductive material, or using thicker wires. Additionally, minimizing the length of the circuit and avoiding sharp bends in the wires can also help reduce resistance and therefore decrease power dissipation.

What are some practical applications of understanding the relation between resistance and power dissipation?

Understanding the relation between resistance and power dissipation is important in designing and optimizing electrical circuits, as well as in choosing appropriate materials for various applications. For example, in electronic devices, minimizing power dissipation can help prolong battery life and prevent overheating, while in power systems, managing resistance can help improve efficiency and reduce energy waste.

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