Solution
Related Formula
P = V²ReqCore Logic
Initially, the power (rate of energy dissipation) is W = (V²)/(R). When the wire is cut into two halves, each half will have a resistance of (R)/(2) (since resistance is directly proportional to length).
Step 1: Equivalent Resistance
When these two halves (each of (R)/(2)) are connected in parallel, their equivalent resistance Req is:
Req = (((R)/(2)) × ((R)/(2)))/((R)/(2) + (R)/(2)) = (R)/(4)Step 2: New Power Dissipation
The new rate of energy dissipation W' across the same potential difference V is:
W' = V²Req = (V²)/((R)/(4)) = 4 (V²)/(R)W' = 4W
Pattern Recognition
Cutting a resistor into n equal parts and connecting them in parallel reduces the total resistance by a factor of n². Consequently, for a constant voltage supply, the power dissipated increases by a factor of n².
Chapter Mix
Class 12 Physics: Current Electricity