Physic Labs

Problem 2

A source of emf ℰ and internal resistance r drives a resistor R. Find the current, power in R, and R maximizing that power. Use the stated ideal model: quantities are constant or vary only as specified, with no extra drag, losses, or external influences. State a sign convention, keep units consistent, and use a classical approximation only where appropriate. (a) Set up the governing equation from a fundamental law. (b) Solve for the requested quantity under the stated conditions. (c) Check the result using a suitable limit, sign, or unit test, and report both the expression and its physical meaning.I is the circuit current and P_R is the power dissipated in the load R.
I=E/(R+r),PR=E2R/(R+r)2,Rmax⁡=rI=\mathcal E/(R+r),\quad P_R=\mathcal E^2R/(R+r)^2,\quad R_{\max}=r
problems.proof.analysis

The boxed expressions answer the parts in order. Signs, conditions of validity, and constants follow the conventions in the statement.