Will current flow in a circuit with two opposing diodes and a DC source?

In summary, the conversation discusses a circuit with one cell, two diodes, and a bulb. The question is whether the current will get trapped in the second branch and continuously flow around the loop. It is determined that no current can flow through the bulb due to Kirchhoff's loop rule, and the fact that the diodes are facing each other and a DC source is indicated.
  • #1
FeDeX_LaTeX
Gold Member
437
13
Hi;

Consider this circuit (ignore my bad drawing):

http://img63.imageshack.us/img63/3967/diodes.png [Broken]

In the picture there is one cell, two diodes and a bulb. Will the current get trapped in the second branch and continuously flow around that loop?

Thanks.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
FeDeX_LaTeX said:
Hi;

Consider this circuit (ignore my bad drawing):

http://img63.imageshack.us/img63/3967/diodes.png [Broken]

In the picture there is one cell, two diodes and a bulb. Will the current get trapped in the second branch and continuously flow around that loop?

Thanks.

According to Kirchhoff's loop rule,applied to the loop on the right, the potential difference across the bulb must be 0, so no current can flow through it.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #3
Well, no current will flow anyway because of the fact that the two diodes are facing each other and you have indicated a DC source.
 

1. What is a diode?

A diode is an electronic component that allows current to flow in only one direction. It has two terminals, an anode and a cathode, and is used to control the flow of electricity in a circuit.

2. How does a diode work?

A diode is made up of a semiconductor material, typically silicon, with a p-n junction. When a positive voltage is applied to the anode and a negative voltage is applied to the cathode, the diode allows current to flow. However, if the polarity is reversed, the diode blocks the flow of current.

3. What is the purpose of a diode in an electric circuit?

The main purpose of a diode in an electric circuit is to control the direction of current flow. It can be used to convert alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC), rectify voltage, and protect components from reverse voltage.

4. What are some common applications of diodes?

Diodes have a wide range of applications in various electronic devices. They are commonly used in power supplies, radios, televisions, computers, and many other electronic circuits. They are also used in solar panels to convert sunlight into electricity.

5. Can a diode be damaged or fail in a circuit?

Yes, a diode can be damaged or fail in a circuit due to factors such as excessive current, high temperatures, and reverse voltage. It is important to choose the right diode for a specific application and to use proper circuit protection to prevent damage.

Similar threads

  • Electromagnetism
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Electrical Engineering
Replies
2
Views
873
Replies
21
Views
2K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
2
Views
10K
Replies
18
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
183
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
Replies
14
Views
595
Back
Top