Final answer:
The total calculated load for a 120v circuit with 8 recessed fluorescent fixtures, each with a ballast rated at 0.5a, is 4.0 amps.
Step-by-step explanation:
The calculated load for a 120v circuit supplying 8 recessed fluorescent fixtures, with each fluorescent ballast rated at 0.5a, is found by multiplying the number of fixtures by the amperage of each fixture.
Since there are 8 fixtures and each fixture has a ballast rated at 0.5a, the total amperage would be:
Load (in amps) = Number of fixtures × Amperage per fixture
Load (in amps) = 8 × 0.5a
Load (in amps) = 4.0 amps
This is the current that would be drawn continuously if the fixtures are operated at the same time. Such a load is well within the range of what typical household circuits can handle, considering that most circuits are protected by fuses or breakers rated at 15 or 20 amps.