Calculating potential difference

In summary, the speaker has attempted to solve question 2 using various methods but has been unable to get the correct answer. They have used Ohm's law for question 1 and obtained the correct answers, but the same method did not work for question 2. They also tried finding the conductance from the resistance and current, but this gave them a negative voltage of -7.5 volts, which they know is incorrect. They are confused and feel like they may be missing something simple. The requested attachment or image is not available.
  • #1
sallyishyper
3
0
I have done 1, i can't get the right answer for question 2. i seem to be getting minus7.5 volts. i know that's not anywhere near right because you can't get a minus voltage. i have tried many different ways to do this and i still can't get the right answer

To get question 1 i used ohms law which gave me the two answers shown in the attachment, for question 2 i tried using the same method, but that gave me the wrong answer so i tried finding the conductance and from the resistance and the current, but that gave me - 7.5 volts. i ma very confused an i think i might be missing something very simple

https://www.physicsforums.com/attachments/16093
 
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  • #2
Hi sallyishyper,

sallyishyper said:
I have done 1, i can't get the right answer for question 2. i seem to be getting minus7.5 volts. i know that's not anywhere near right because you can't get a minus voltage. i have tried many different ways to do this and i still can't get the right answer

To get question 1 i used ohms law which gave me the two answers shown in the attachment, for question 2 i tried using the same method, but that gave me the wrong answer so i tried finding the conductance and from the resistance and the current, but that gave me - 7.5 volts. i ma very confused an i think i might be missing something very simple

https://www.physicsforums.com/attachments/16093


Your attachment does not seem to be there.
 
  • #3
I couldn't get the attachment either, says that there is an error.
 
  • #4
Hi sallyishyper! :smile:

Can you give us the url of your picture? :wink:
 
  • #5
/Hello,

Thank you for sharing your concerns about calculating potential difference. It sounds like you have put in a lot of effort but are still having trouble getting the correct answer for question 2. First of all, I want to reassure you that it is completely normal to struggle with certain concepts or calculations in science. It takes practice and sometimes trial and error to fully understand and master a concept.

Now, let's take a closer look at the issue you are facing. You mentioned using Ohm's Law to calculate potential difference in question 1, which is a valid approach. However, it's important to make sure that all of your units are consistent when using this formula. For example, if you are using resistance in ohms, then your current should be in amperes and your potential difference will be in volts. Double check to make sure you are using the correct units in your calculations.

For question 2, it seems like you have tried different methods but are still getting a negative value for potential difference. This could mean that there is an error in your calculation or that you are missing some key information. Without seeing the specific problem, it's difficult for me to pinpoint the exact issue. However, I can offer some general advice.

First, make sure you fully understand the concept of potential difference and how it relates to resistance and current. It may help to review some basic principles of electricity and circuits. Additionally, try breaking down the problem into smaller, simpler steps. For example, calculate the resistance and current separately before finding the potential difference. This can help you identify where the mistake is happening.

If you are still having trouble, I suggest reaching out to a classmate, teacher, or tutor for additional help. Sometimes having a different perspective can make all the difference. Don't get discouraged and keep practicing. With persistence and determination, I am confident you will be able to find the correct answer.

Best of luck!
 

FAQ: Calculating potential difference

What is potential difference?

Potential difference, also known as voltage, is the difference in electric potential energy between two points in an electric circuit.

How do you calculate potential difference?

Potential difference can be calculated by dividing the change in electric potential energy by the charge that moves through the circuit. This can be represented by the equation: V = ΔE/q.

What is the unit of potential difference?

The unit of potential difference is volts (V) in the International System of Units (SI).

What is the difference between potential difference and electric potential?

Potential difference is a measure of the difference in electric potential energy between two points, while electric potential is a measure of the electric potential energy at a specific point in an electric field.

How does potential difference affect the flow of electric current?

Potential difference is responsible for the flow of electric current in a circuit. The greater the potential difference, the greater the force on the charges and the faster the current will flow. Conversely, a smaller potential difference will result in a slower flow of electric current.

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