Resistors In Series and Parallel Power Rating

[danner123]

If I put two resistors in series (load 1) that are both power rated at 50W, does that mean the power rating over the resistor load 1 becomes 100W (meaning I just add the the power ratings of the two resistors)?

If I put two resistors in parallel that are both power rated at 50W, what does the overall load 2 power rating become?

Thanks!

 

[CataM]

If I put two resistors in series (load 1) that are both power rated at 50W, does that mean the power rating over the resistor load 1 becomes 100W (meaning I just add the the power ratings of the two resistors)?

No because it could happen for one resistor to dissipate 70 W and for another to dissipate 10 W which is bad even though the equivalent power dissipation is 80 W and hence a resistor rated for 100 W would be suitable.

 

[Altaero]

Resistor power rating doesn't change, it's intrisic property of a physical component. But if you use serial or parallel connection, you change power dissipation at every resistor due to various voltage/current. P = U * I - school formula.
In serial connection you have total P = (U1 + U2) * I, in parallel P = U * (I1 + I2). You can decrease power at every resistor this way, while keeping total power dissipation.

 

[Externet]

The power rating of resistors add either if they are connected in series or in parallel, for same resistance values.
Two 50 W are rated 100 W anyway you connect them if their resistance is the same.

 

[albbg]

I did some calculation. I left the parallel resistors case to be developed by you.