The DC power source for arc welding has the characteristics \( 3V + I = 240 \), where 'V' is the voltage in volts and 'I' is the current in amperes. For maximum power at the electrode, voltage should be set at:
Show Hint
To maximize power in electrical systems, the voltage and current must be chosen to balance the equation \( P = V \times I \).
Step 1: Use the power equation.
The power \( P \) is given by:
\[
P = V \times I
\]
The equation for the voltage and current is:
\[
3V + I = 240
\]
Step 2: Maximize power
To maximize power, we need to find the voltage and current that give the highest value of \( P = V \times I \). This happens when \( \frac{dP}{dV} = 0 \).
Step 3: Conclusion
By solving the equation, the optimal voltage is \( 140 \, \text{V} \).
Final Answer:
\[
\boxed{140 \, \text{V}}
\]