Finding Thevenin eq of this circuit

In summary, the conversation discusses finding the Thevenin and Norton equivalent circuit of a given circuit as viewed from terminals AB. The Thevenin equivalent circuit is a voltage source in series with a resistance, and the Norton equivalent is a current source in parallel with a resistance. To find the Thevenin resistance, all independent sources are set to zero, and the equivalent resistance in reference to the terminals is calculated. Thevenin voltage is obtained by finding the voltage across the element in parallel with the terminals. For Norton equivalent, a source transformation is done, with the equivalent resistance being equal to the Thevenin resistance and the equivalent current being equal to the Thevenin voltage divided by the Thevenin resistance.
  • #1
The_Lobster
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There's a problem in my book where it asks me to find the Thevenin and Norton equivalent circuit of the attached circuit, as viewed from AB. I believe I know the answer, but just had to check to be sure this is not a trick question?

Isn't the Thevenin eq. circuit as seen from AB exactly the one drawn, without R1 and R2? And the Norton one just a source transformation from the one we see?

Thanks in advance!
 

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  • #2
A thevenin equivalent circuit is always a voltage source in series with a resistance. To get the thevenin resistance, you set all independent sources to zero (short voltage source, open current source), and find the equivalent resistance in reference to the terminals. So in reference to the terminals AB, we have R_th = R_s // R_1 // R2 = (R_s*R_1 + R_s*R_2 + R_1*R_2)/(R_s + R_1+R_2). To get thevenin voltage, we can easily find by finding the voltage across whatever is in parallel with the terminals, which can be either R_1 or R_2. Doing a simple node equation at A, calling A V_th, and calling B ground, (V_th - 15)/R_s + V_th/R_1 + V_th/R_2 = 0. Solve for V_th.

EDIT: For Norton equivalent, you simply do a source transformation. Norton equivalent is a current source in parallel with a resister. R_n = R_th. I_n = V_th / R_th
 
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1. What is a Thevenin equivalent circuit?

A Thevenin equivalent circuit is a simplified representation of a complex circuit that contains only a single voltage source and a single resistor. It is used to analyze the behavior of a circuit without having to consider all of its internal components.

2. Why is it important to determine the Thevenin equivalent of a circuit?

Determining the Thevenin equivalent of a circuit allows us to simplify the analysis of the circuit and make predictions about its behavior. It also helps us to determine the maximum power that can be delivered to a load connected to the circuit.

3. How do you find the Thevenin equivalent of a circuit?

To find the Thevenin equivalent of a circuit, you must first remove the load resistor and determine the open circuit voltage (Voc) across the load terminals. Then, you must determine the equivalent resistance (Req) by short-circuiting all voltage sources and calculating the resistance between the load terminals. Finally, the Thevenin voltage (Vth) is equal to Voc and the Thevenin resistance (Rth) is equal to Req.

4. What are the limitations of using Thevenin equivalent circuits?

Thevenin equivalent circuits are only valid for linear circuits that contain independent sources. They cannot be used to analyze circuits with dependent sources or non-linear components such as diodes and transistors.

5. Can the Thevenin equivalent circuit be used to determine the behavior of a circuit at all frequencies?

No, the Thevenin equivalent circuit only accurately represents the behavior of a circuit at a single frequency or a narrow range of frequencies. It cannot be used to analyze circuits with varying frequency responses, such as filters and amplifiers.

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