Final answer:
A 50-W light bulb can use more energy than a 1000-W oven if it remains on for a longer time, because energy consumption is the calculation of power multiplied by the time of use. The correct answer is that the oven is used for a shorter duration.
Step-by-step explanation:
To understand how a 50-W light bulb can use more energy than a 1000-W oven, we must consider the duration of usage alongside their power ratings. A 50-W light bulb that is left on for a longer period will consume more energy in total than a 1000-W oven that is operated for a short time. This is because energy consumption is the product of power and time (Energy = Power x Time). In the scenario described, the correct answer to the question is b) The oven is on for a shorter time. This principle applies regardless of the light bulb or oven efficiency, the power rating, or the voltage used.
Power in an electrical circuit is related to voltage, current, and resistance through the formula Power (P) = Voltage (V) x Current (I), where Voltage = Current (I) x Resistance (R). Thus, increased voltage or current leads to higher power consumption for a device operating at a constant resistance.