Question

Pure copper wire of diameter = 2.0 mm has an electrical resistance, R, of 0.005 ohm/m (upside down U/m). p = 8900 kg/ m cubed, Cp= 440 J/(kg K). Passage of electrical current produces thermal energy generation = I triangle V= I squared R (J/sec).

Note that Units: Volts = J/coulomb; ohms = volts/amps; amps = coulombs/sec.

Calculate the thermal energy generation (J/sec) due to a steady current of 15 amps through a one meter length of wire.