Thevenin equivalent circuit

In summary, the Thevenin equivalent circuit allows for the calculation of power used by a variable load in a circuit. The load can be in parallel or series and the equivalent circuit simplifies the original circuit for easier analysis. It is recommended to try both methods to see the difference in results.
  • #1
_wolfgang_
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In a thevenin equivalent circuit are you able to find the power used in the circuit by the variable load?
I have a circuit where the variable load is in parrallel I was thinking the power used in the original circuit by the variable load would be different than in the equivalent because it is in series.. Any ideas?
 
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  • #2
It's called the Thevinin Equivalent because its equivalent and it's purpose is to do exactly what you mention with it, that is convert a messy / complicated / busy circuit to a simple one so you can figure out some end result.

Why not try both ways and see for yourself!
 

1. What is a Thevenin equivalent circuit?

A Thevenin equivalent circuit is a simplified representation of a complex electrical circuit that contains a voltage source, a resistor, and all other components replaced by their equivalent values. It allows for easier analysis and calculation of the circuit's behavior.

2. How do I find the Thevenin equivalent circuit of a circuit?

To find the Thevenin equivalent circuit, you need to determine the open-circuit voltage and the equivalent resistance of the original circuit. The open-circuit voltage is the voltage across the terminals when they are disconnected, and the equivalent resistance is the resistance measured across the terminals with all voltage sources replaced by short circuits and all current sources replaced by open circuits.

3. What is the benefit of using a Thevenin equivalent circuit?

The main benefit of using a Thevenin equivalent circuit is that it simplifies the analysis of a complex circuit. It reduces the number of components and allows for easier calculation of the circuit's behavior. It also helps in determining the maximum power that can be transferred to a load connected to the circuit.

4. Can a Thevenin equivalent circuit be used for any circuit?

No, a Thevenin equivalent circuit can only be used for linear circuits, meaning that the current through the circuit is directly proportional to the voltage across it. Non-linear components, such as diodes or transistors, cannot be included in a Thevenin equivalent circuit.

5. How accurate is a Thevenin equivalent circuit?

A Thevenin equivalent circuit is an approximation of a complex circuit and may not be as accurate as the original circuit. The accuracy depends on the complexity of the original circuit and the values used for the open-circuit voltage and equivalent resistance. In practical applications, the accuracy is usually close enough for analysis and design purposes.

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