

The total power is equal to the sum of the power used by the individual resistors. To check the answer, the total power delivered by the source can be calculated: Solution: The total resistance is found first.īy using the total resistance and the applied voltage, the circuit current is calculated.īy means of the power formulas, the power can be calculated for each resistor: Solving for total power in a series circuit. Find the total power when 120 volts is applied to the circuit.

Total power (P T) is equal to:Įxample: A series circuit consists of three resistors having values of 5 ohms, 10 ohms, and 15 ohms. In a series circuit the total power is equal to the SUM of the power dissipated by the individual resistors. Since this power must come from the source, the total power must be equal to the power consumed by the circuit resistances.

Each of the resistors in a series circuit consumes power which is dissipated in the form of heat.
