Which wire is brighter in a parallel circuit with equal p.d. - P or Q?

In summary, the conversation discusses the comparison of brightness between two thin nichrome wires, P and Q, when connected in a series or parallel circuit. The wires have the same length but different diameters. In a series connection, Q is brighter than P due to the greater p.d. across Q. In a parallel connection, the brightness of P and Q should be the same since the p.d. across both wires is the same, but the correct answer is that P is brighter than Q. The correct way to compare brightness is by comparing power (P=U*I) rather than just the p.d.
  • #1
denian
641
0
figure show 2 ways how 2 thin nichrome wires P and Q at fixed p.d. V are connected. Both P and Q are of the same length but the diameter of wire P is bigger than that of wire Q. When wire P and Q glow steadily in both circuit, which on of the following shows the comparison of brightness between wire P and Q in each connection?

for series connection, i know that Q is brighter than P because p.d. across Q is greater ( resistance Q > resistance P )

for bout the parallel connection? i thought the brightness of P and Q should be same because p.d. across both P and Q are same
but answer is P brighter than Q.
any clue?

and am i correct to compare brightness by comparing the p.d. ?
 

Attachments

  • physics.jpg
    physics.jpg
    5.3 KB · Views: 462
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
denian said:
and am i correct to compare brightness by comparing the p.d. ?

No. You should compare power, P=U*I. (voltage * current)

ehild
 
  • #3
thanks ehild.
 

FAQ: Which wire is brighter in a parallel circuit with equal p.d. - P or Q?

What is electrical conduction?

Electrical conduction is the movement of electrically charged particles, such as electrons or ions, through a conductive material. This flow of charge is what allows electricity to power devices and systems.

What are the different types of electrical conduction?

There are three main types of electrical conduction: metallic, electrolytic, and semiconducting. Metallic conduction occurs in metals and involves the movement of free electrons. Electrolytic conduction occurs in solutions and involves the movement of charged ions. Semiconducting conduction occurs in materials like silicon and involves the movement of both electrons and holes.

What factors affect electrical conduction?

The factors that affect electrical conduction include the type of material, its temperature, and the presence of impurities or defects. Materials with high conductivity, such as metals, will have better electrical conduction than materials with low conductivity, such as rubber. Higher temperatures can also increase the conductivity of a material, while impurities and defects can hinder the flow of charge.

How is electrical conduction measured?

Electrical conduction is typically measured using a device called a conductivity meter, which measures the flow of charge through a material. The unit of measurement for conductivity is siemens per meter (S/m) in the International System of Units (SI).

What are some real-world applications of electrical conduction?

Electrical conduction has many practical applications, including powering electronic devices, transmitting electricity through power lines, and enabling communication through electrical signals. It is also used in various industries, such as electronics, telecommunications, and power generation. Additionally, the human body relies on electrical conduction for functions like nerve impulses and muscle contractions.

Similar threads

Which bulb will glow brighter in a series and parallel circuit?
Replies
5
Views
1K
Differences in the Brightness of bulbs for 2 separate circuits
Replies
1
Views
2K
Nichrome Wire Brightness in Series: A Conductivity Homework Problem
Replies
2
Views
2K
Current, voltage : brightness of bulb in parallel or series
Replies
2
Views
3K
Why do the headlights on the car become dim when the car is starting?
Replies
4
Views
983
Theory of Electric Circuit: Potential Difference and Internal Resistance
Replies
9
Views
4K
Proving an expression / help with defining electric current
Replies
1
Views
3K
Lightbulbs and a battery circuit
Replies
12
Views
2K
Energy and Voltage of Capacitor Circuits
Replies
5
Views
1K
Energy And Electric Field In Circuits
Replies
7
Views
3K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top