difference between P=IV and P=I^2R

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carlover
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can both of these equations describe power loss?

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Yes, both equations describe power dissipation. V=RI is Ohm's Law. Using Ohm's Law you can derive P=I^2R.
 
Yes, but be careful when you use P=IV vs P=I^2R.

When you have resistors in series, Vresistor is not equal to Vtotal as given. So you will have to calculate I first, then plug into P=I^2R.
 
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for electrical power generated go w/ P = IV, but for power loss due to heating etc. go w/ P = (I^2) R (i cant remember from where i read that for power loss but im positive). obviously ohm's law lets u interconvert but for i've read somewhere for power loss stick to (I^2) R
 
Thanks, can anyone else confirm that P=I^2R can be used for a heat generated in a power loss situation?
 
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