Power equivalence with mixed units: For a circuit operating at 12 V with a current of 40 mA, what is the power expressed in different unit forms?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: all of the above

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Being able to compute electrical power and express it in equivalent units is a core skill in basic circuit analysis and electronics troubleshooting. This question evaluates your fluency with P = V * I and with converting between watts (W), milliwatts (mW), and microwatts (µW).


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Voltage V = 12 V (direct current or RMS equivalent).
  • Current I = 40 mA = 0.04 A.
  • Power relation P = V * I applies to resistive loads (or RMS quantities).


Concept / Approach:
Use the fundamental power equation P = V * I, then convert the numerical result into different unit scales. Remember that 1 W = 1,000 mW and 1 W = 1,000,000 µW. Consistent unit conversion is crucial for component selection and power budgeting.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Compute power in watts: P = 12 * 0.04 = 0.48 W.Convert to milliwatts: 0.48 W = 0.48 * 1,000 = 480 mW.Convert to microwatts: 0.48 W = 0.48 * 1,000,000 = 480,000 µW.


Verification / Alternative check:
Cross-check using P = I^2 * R or P = V^2 / R if resistance is known; here, dimensional checks confirm the unit conversions. The three numerical forms represent the same physical power.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Each individual value is correct; therefore, the best choice is the inclusive option stating all are correct.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Forgetting to convert milliamperes to amperes before multiplying by volts.
  • Confusing mW and µW scaling factors (10^3 vs 10^6).


Final Answer:
all of the above

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