Question

You are given 48 cells of each emf 2v and internal resistance 1 ohm. How will you connect them so that current through an external resistance of 3 ohm is maximum

Answer 1

Each cell should be connected in parallel with the external resistance so as to maximize the current.

Due to superposition effect, current via each cell will add up,

current due to each cell

= 2/(1+3)

= 2/4

= 0.5 A

Current due to 48 cells = 48 x 0.5 = 24 Amperes.

Hence Each cell should be connected in parallel with the external resistance for maximum current.