University Physics with Modern Physics (14th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321973615
ISBN 13: 978-0-32197-361-0

Chapter 26 - Direct-Current Circuits - Problems - Discussion Questions - Page 872: Q26.1

Answer

See explanation.

Work Step by Step

The 60-W bulb has a greater resistance. The resistance can be written in terms of power and voltage. $$R=\frac{V^2}{P}$$ Both bulbs are operated at the same 120 volts, so the lower power bulb filament has the higher resistance. When the bulbs are in series, the current going through them is the same. The bulb with the higher resistance, the 60-W bulb, will have the greater voltage drop. $V=IR$. When the bulbs are in parallel, the voltage across each of them is the same.
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