Question

In a resistive circuit, the power dissipated by a resistor \( R \) when a current \( I \) flows through it is given by \( P = I^2 R \). What happens to the power when the current is doubled?

• A. It quadruples
• B. It doubles
• C. It remains the same
• D. It is halved

Hint:

In a resistive circuit, power is proportional to the square of the current. Doubling the current results in a fourfold increase in power dissipation.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The power dissipated in a resistor is given by \( P = I^2 R \). If the current is doubled, i.e., \( I \rightarrow 2I \), the power becomes: \[ P' = (2I)^2 R = 4I^2 R. \] 

Thus, the power quadruples when the current is doubled.