What is the approximate power loss for a conductor in a 208-volt circuit with a 5% voltage drop and a current flow of 15 amperes?

To determine the approximate power loss for a conductor in a 208-volt circuit with a 5% voltage drop and a current flow of 15 amperes, we first need to calculate the voltage drop. A 5% voltage drop in a 208-volt circuit means the voltage drop is:

[ \text{Voltage Drop} = 208 \text{ volts} \times 0.05 = 10.4 \text{ volts}

]

The power loss due to this voltage drop can be calculated using the formula:

[ \text{Power Loss} = \text{Voltage Drop} \times \text{Current} ]

Substituting in the values we have:

[ \text{Power Loss} = 10.4 \text{ volts} \times 15 \text{ amperes} = 156 \text{ watts} ]

Thus, the correct answer is 156 watts, as this value represents the power loss in the conductor due to the voltage drop caused by the current flowing through it. This aligns with the principles of electrical engineering, where power loss in conductors is a direct result of both the current and the voltage drop across the conductor.