An electric heater has a power rating of 1500 W - Leaving Cert Physics - Question e - 2020
Question e
An electric heater has a power rating of 1500 W. It uses a voltage of 230 V. Which fuse should be used in the plug, a 3 A fuse or a 13 A fuse? Justify your answer.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:An electric heater has a power rating of 1500 W - Leaving Cert Physics - Question e - 2020
Step 1
Calculate the current using the formula $I = \frac{P}{V}$
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Answer
First, we need to calculate the current drawn by the heater using the formula:
I=VP
Substituting the values:
I=230V1500W≈6.52 A
This indicates that the heater will draw approximately 6.52 A of current.
Step 2
Determine the suitable fuse rating
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Answer
Since the calculated current is approximately 6.52 A, we need to choose a fuse rating that can safely handle this current without blowing under normal operation.
A 3 A fuse would not be suitable, as it would blow under the operating conditions of the heater. However, a 13 A fuse can handle the current comfortably.
Thus, the appropriate choice for the fuse is a 13 A fuse.
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