Which one of the following equations most directly determines the power dissipation of a resistance when you know the power dissipation of a resistance when you know the voltage drop and current? A. P = IE B. P = E2/R C. P = I2R D. I = P/E E. None of the above

The correct answer is C. P = I2R.

Power is the rate at which energy is transferred or converted. In the case of a resistor, power is dissipated as heat. The amount of power dissipated by a resistor is given by the equation $P = I^2R$, where $I$ is the current through the resistor and $R$ is the resistance of the resistor.

Option

A, $P = IE$, is the power formula for a resistor in a series circuit. Option B, $P = E^2/R$, is the power formula for a resistor in a parallel circuit. Option D, $I = P/E$, is the current formula for a resistor. Option E is not a valid equation.