What current does the lamp receive when connected across 120 volts if it has a resistance of 50 ohms?
The lamp connected across 120 volts with a resistance of 50 ohms will receive a current of 2.4 amperes (A). To calculate the current, we can use Ohm's Law, which states that the current (I) flowing through a conductor is equal to the voltage (V) across the conductor divided by its resistance (R), represented by the equation I = V/R.
In this scenario, the voltage across the lamp is 120 volts, and the resistance of the lamp is 50 ohms. By substituting these values into the Ohm's Law equation, we get I = 120 volts / 50 ohms = 2.4 amperes (A).
Therefore, the lamp will receive a current of 2.4 amperes (A). It's important to consider that this calculation assumes the lamp has a purely resistive load, meaning its resistance remains constant despite the applied voltage. Factors like temperature and resistance variations may affect the actual current flow in practical situations.
Understanding Ohm's Law
Ohm's Law is a fundamental principle in electrical engineering that defines the relationship between voltage, current, and resistance in an electrical circuit. The law is expressed as I = V/R, where I represents the current in amperes, V is the voltage in volts, and R indicates the resistance in ohms.
When a lamp with a resistance of 50 ohms is connected across 120 volts, the current flowing through the lamp can be calculated using Ohm's Law. In this case, the voltage (V) is 120 volts, and the resistance (R) is 50 ohms. By applying the formula I = V/R, we find that the lamp receives 2.4 amperes of current.
Calculating Current
By dividing the voltage of 120 volts by the resistance of 50 ohms, we determine that the lamp receives a current of 2.4 amperes (A). This current measurement indicates the flow of electrons through the lamp's circuit when it is connected across a 120-volt power source.
Practical Considerations
While the calculated current value of 2.4 amperes provides an accurate theoretical estimate, practical factors can influence the actual current flow. For instance, changes in the lamp's resistance due to temperature variations or other external factors may impact the current consumption.
It's essential to ensure that electrical components operate within their specified parameters to maintain safe and efficient operation. Regular monitoring and maintenance of electrical systems help prevent issues related to current flow, voltage regulation, and overall circuit performance.