[Ohm's law] Why does the answer key use the time after 5 seconds?

In summary: The solution states clearly that during the first 5 seconds the current is 2 A for only 3 of those 5 seconds. Can you verify this by looking at the graph, or is it just something you assume must be true because it's stated in the solution?
  • #1
bluesteels
28
1
Homework Statement
A 10 Ω resistor carries a current that varies as a function of time as
shown. How much energy has been dissipated by the resistor after 5 s?
Relevant Equations
E= I^2 R delta t
Screen Shot 2022-03-18 at 12.25.31 AM.png

This the answer key::

Screen Shot 2022-03-18 at 12.25.19 AM.png


im confused because it say "how much energy has been dissipated after 5s". So shouldn't you be looking at the ground after 5 sec.

but apparently the solution look at it before 5 sec, am I missing anything, can someone explain
 
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  • #2
Yes, "after 5 seconds" means that 5 seconds has passed. Think of it as asking, "after 5 seconds has passed". We just get lazy and don't add the "has passed" part.
 
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  • #3
Drakkith said:
Yes, "after 5 seconds" means that 5 seconds has passed. Think of it as asking, "after 5 seconds has passed". We just get lazy and don't add the "has passed" part.
but on the answer key they got 3 sec before 5 second has passed. Do you see what I mean. The first pic is the question 2nd is the answer key.I'm confused on why are getting the value (3s) within 5 second interval when the question ask for after 5 second
 
  • #4
In the 5 second interval, the current is only non-zero during 3 of those and when it is non-zero it is 2 A.
 
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  • #5
bluesteels said:
but on the answer key they got 3 sec before 5 second has passed.
For how many seconds out of those 5 is there current flowing through the resistor?
 
  • #6
bluesteels said:
I'm confused on why are getting the value (3s) within 5 second interval when the question ask for after 5 second
So, you are confused by the solution, not by the question? But you are also confused by the question, which prompted you to look at the solution. Try to understand the question and come up with a solution before you look at the solution. Otherwise, you will not be prepared for test questions and won't do well in the course.

The solution states clearly that during the first 5 seconds the current is 2 A for only 3 of those 5 seconds. Can you verify this by looking at the graph, or is it just something you assume must be true because it's stated in the solution?
 
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FAQ: [Ohm's law] Why does the answer key use the time after 5 seconds?

Why is time after 5 seconds used in Ohm's law calculations?

The time after 5 seconds is used in Ohm's law calculations because it is the standard time interval used to measure the flow of electricity in a circuit. It allows for consistent and accurate measurements to be taken.

Can a different time interval be used in Ohm's law calculations?

Yes, a different time interval can be used in Ohm's law calculations. However, using a time interval other than 5 seconds may result in less accurate calculations and may not align with the standard measurement used in the scientific community.

How does time factor into Ohm's law?

Time is not a direct factor in Ohm's law. Ohm's law states that the current flowing through a conductor is directly proportional to the voltage and inversely proportional to the resistance. However, time is used as a measurement to determine the rate of flow of electricity and to calculate the power dissipated in a circuit.

Why is Ohm's law important in scientific research?

Ohm's law is important in scientific research because it is a fundamental principle that helps scientists understand and analyze electrical circuits. It allows for accurate calculations and predictions to be made, which is crucial in many scientific fields such as physics, engineering, and electronics.

Is Ohm's law applicable to all types of circuits?

Yes, Ohm's law is applicable to all types of circuits, including both AC and DC circuits. However, in some cases, the law may need to be modified to account for the non-linear behavior of certain components, such as diodes and transistors.

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