Q. A 25 W and 100 W bulbs are joined in series and connected to the mains. Which bulb will glow brighter?

A) 25 W bulb
B) 100 W bulb
C) Both bulb will glow brighter
D) None will glow brighter
Explanation

(a) As we know that,
$\ \ \ \ \ P = \frac{V^{2}}{R}$
$\Rightarrow R = \frac{V^{2}}{P}$
$\Rightarrow \ \ R \propto \frac{1}{P}$
Hence, the resistance of 25 W bulb is greater than the resistance of 100 W bulb.
Now, both the bulbs are joined in series so the current will be same.
So, heat produced by the bulbs
$H = i^{2}\ Rt\ \Rightarrow \ H \propto R$
So, the heat produced by the 25 W bulb is greater than the bulb of 100 W, because its resistance is more than that of 100 W bulb. Hence, 25 W bulb will glow brighter.

Dr. Abubacker
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker

Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist

Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.