Two conducting wires of the same material and of equal lengths and equal diameters are first connected in series and then in parallel in an electric circuit. The ratio of the heat produced in series and parallel combinations would be: [3 MARKS]
Each point: 1 Mark
Since both wires are made of the same material and have equal lengths and equal diameters, these have the resistance. Let it be R
When connected in series, their equivalent resistance is given by
Rs=R+R=2R
When connected in parallel, their equivalent resistance is given by or 1Rp=(1R)+(1R)=2R⟹Rp=R2
Further, electrical power is given by P=V2R
Power (or heat produced) in series, Ps=V2Rp
Thus, PsPv=V2RsV2Rv=RvRs=R22R=14
or Ps:Pp::1:4