Parallel lighting calculation: Five identical 200 W bulbs are connected in parallel to a 110 V supply. What is the approximate current through each bulb?

Introduction / Context:
In parallel circuits, each branch receives the full supply voltage. For a rated appliance such as a light bulb, the current through that branch is determined by its power rating and the applied voltage. This is a standard power calculation useful for household and laboratory circuits.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Supply voltage V = 110 V (constant).
• Each bulb rated P = 200 W.
• Five bulbs are in parallel (but question asks per-bulb current).
• Assume bulbs operate at nominal ratings.

Concept / Approach:

Use P = V * I for each bulb. Since each bulb in parallel sees 110 V, the branch current is I = P / V. The number of bulbs does not change the current in each branch; it changes the total current drawn from the source.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Total current with five bulbs would be 5 * 1.818 A ≈ 9.09 A, which matches another option but refers to total, not per bulb. The question explicitly asks per-bulb current.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

2.2 A overestimates current. 137 mA is far too small for 200 W at 110 V. 9.09 A is the approximate total for five bulbs, not per bulb.

Common Pitfalls:

Confusing branch (per bulb) current with total source current in parallel networks.

Final Answer:

1.8 A