Final answer:
In analyzing a series circuit, calculate the total resistance, determine the current using Ohm's law, analyze the voltage drop across each resistor, and calculate the power dissipated by each resistor. For a sample series circuit with resistances of 1, 2, and 3 ohms and a 15V source, the total resistance is 6 ohms, the current is 2.5 A, and the voltage drops add to the battery's voltage.
Step-by-step explanation:
To address the student's question regarding the circuit analysis, we begin by summarising the steps involved in analyzing a simple series circuit. Assuming the circuit described is a series circuit with resistors R1, R2, and R3, and a power source of E = 15V:
- Calculate the total resistance (Rt) by adding the resistances of each resistor: Rt = R1 + R2 + R3.
- Determine the current (I) flowing through the circuit using Ohm's law: I = E / Rt.
- Analyze the voltage drop across each resistor (Vr) using Ohm's law: Vr = I * R for each resistor.
- Identify the circuit type, which is likely a series circuit based on the information provided.
For example, if in a series circuit you have resistances of R1 = 1 Ω, R2 = 2 Ω, and R3 = 3 Ω, the total resistance will be Rt = 1 Ω + 2 Ω + 3 Ω = 6 Ω. The current would then be I = 15V / 6Ω = 2.5 A. The voltage drop across each resistor would be V1 = 2.5 A * 1 Ω = 2.5 V, V2 = 2.5 A * 2 Ω = 5 V, and V3 = 2.5 A * 3 Ω = 7.5 V. To confirm these calculations add up correctly, they should equal the total voltage supplied by the battery: 2.5 V + 5 V + 7.5 V = 15 V. Lastly, calculate the power dissipated by each resistor: P = I^2 * R for each resistor.