The potential difference between the two end terminals of an electric

The potential difference between the two end terminals of an electric heater is 220 V and the current through it is 0·5 A. What would be the current through the heater if the potential difference across the terminals of the heater is reduced to 120 V ?

1·0 A
0·5 A
0·27 A
0·7 A
This question was previously asked in
UPSC NDA-2 – 2023
Assuming the resistance of the electric heater remains constant, the current through it would be approximately 0.27 A when the potential difference is reduced to 120 V.
– We can use Ohm’s Law, which states that the voltage (V) across a resistor is directly proportional to the current (I) flowing through it, provided the temperature and other physical conditions remain unchanged (V = I * R).
– First, calculate the resistance (R) of the heater using the initial conditions: V1 = 220 V, I1 = 0.5 A.
– R = V1 / I1 = 220 V / 0.5 A = 440 ohms.
– Now, use this resistance to find the new current (I2) when the potential difference (V2) is 120 V.
– V2 = I2 * R
– 120 V = I2 * 440 ohms
– I2 = 120 V / 440 ohms = 12 / 44 A = 3 / 11 A.
– Calculating the decimal value: 3 / 11 ≈ 0.2727 A.
In reality, the resistance of a heater element made of materials like nichrome increases with temperature. However, standard Ohm’s Law problems involving fixed resistors or devices like heaters typically assume constant resistance unless otherwise specified. The calculated current represents the value based on this common assumption.
Exit mobile version