Final answer:
To calculate the total capacity of a battery pack comprising two different modules wired in series, one must consider the configurations within each module. Module A has a total capacity of 3 Ah, and Module B has a total capacity of 4 Ah. Since the modules are in series, the total capacity of the battery pack is 3 Ah, the lower of the two capacities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question involves calculating the total capacity, in Amp-hours (Ah), of a battery pack consisting of two modules with individual cells wired in both series and parallel configurations. Module A has 4 cells in parallel paired with another 4 cells in parallel, and these two groups are then wired in series within the module. Each cell in Module A is rated at 3 Ah. Module B has 3 cells in parallel paired with another 3 cells in parallel, and these two groups are also wired in series within the module. Each cell in Module B is rated at 4 Ah.
To calculate the capacity of each module:
- Module A: Two groups of cells in parallel do not increase capacity, so the capacity remains 3 Ah per group. Wiring these groups in series keeps the capacity the same, therefore Module A's total capacity is 3 Ah.
- Module B: Similarly, each group of 3 cells in parallel has a capacity of 4 Ah. Wiring the two groups in series keeps the capacity at 4 Ah, resulting in Module B's total capacity being 4 Ah.
Since the two modules are wired in series, the total capacity of the battery pack will be determined by the module with the smallest capacity. Hence, the total capacity of the battery pack is the same as the lowest module capacity, which is 3 Ah.