P 2.4-5 A voltage source and two resistors are connected in parallel in the circuit shown in Figure P 2.4-5. Elements connected in parallel have the same voltage, so v₁ = v_s and v₂ = v_s in this circuit. Suppose that v_s = 150 V, R₁ = 50 Ω, and R₂ = 25 Ω. Calculate the current in each resistor and the power absorbed by each resistor.

Hint: Notice the reference directions of the resistor currents.

Answer: i₁ = 3 A and i₂ = –6 A. R₁ absorbs 450 W and R₂ absorbs 900 W.

Figure P 2.4-5

For Resistor 1

Ohm’s Law provides

Note this current is positive as the drawn current direction is the way the current would flow through R1.

Power is obtained by

For Resistor 2

Ohm’s Law provides

Note this current is negative as the drawn current direction is the opposite way the current would flow through R2.

Power is obtained by

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This page last updated on December 28, 2018