As electricity flows through a wire, what is the relationship between the resistance in the wire and the heat produced by the current?

The correct response highlights an important principle in electrical theory known as Joule's law, which states that the heat produced in a conductor by an electric current is directly proportional to the resistance of that conductor and the square of the current flowing through it. When resistance increases in a wire, with all other factors remaining constant, more energy is converted into heat as the electric current faces opposition from the material of the wire.

Essentially, a higher resistance means that electrons encounter more friction as they flow, which results in greater energy dissipation in the form of heat. In practical terms, this can lead to overheating in wires that are carrying significant current, making the understanding of the relationship between resistance and heat critical for safety and equipment design in electrical applications.

This concept is foundational for fire prevention and electrical safety, emphasizing the need for proper wire gauge and materials to minimize risks associated with excess heat generation from electrical resistances.