A 5.1 kΩ resistor has burned out in a circuit. You are to replace it with one of like ohmic value. If the resistor should carry 15 mA, which of the following standard resistors should one use?
A) 5.1 kΩ, 5 W
B) 5.1 kΩ, 1 W
C) 5.1 kΩ, 1/2 W
D) 5.1 kΩ, 2 W

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The power dissipated by the resistor is P = I^2 * R = (0.015 A)^2 * 5100 Ω = 1.1475 W. Therefore, a resistor with a power rating greater than 1.1475 W is needed, making the 5.1 kΩ, 2 W resistor the appropriate choice.

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