Question

1. a 1500w heater is connected to a circuit operating at 240 volts. if the heater is operating at maximum capacity, will the current in the circuit be enough to trip a 15-ampere circuit breaker or fuse?

yes, the heater draws more than 15a and will trip the circuit breaker.

unsure, there is not enough information to determine how much current the heater will draw.

no, the heater will not draw enough current to cause the circuit breaker to trip.

Explanation:

Identify given values and target

Using the Electric Power Formula knowledge point

$$
LATEXBLOCK0
\$$

Calculate operating current

Using the Electric Power Formula knowledge point

$$
LATEXBLOCK1
\$$

Compare current to breaker limit

Using the Circuit Protection and Fuses and Breakers knowledge points

$$
LATEXBLOCK2
\$$

The operating current is below the threshold, so the breaker will not trip.

Answer:

• Yes, the heater draws more than 15A and will trip the circuit breaker.
• Unsure, there is not enough information to determine how much current the heater will draw.
• No, the heater will not draw enough current to cause the circuit breaker to trip. (Correct answer)