Solving for Potential Difference in a Circuit Using Kirchoff's Rule

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In summary, Kirchoff's Rule on Circuits is a fundamental law that states the conservation of current and voltage in an electrical circuit. It is important in circuit analysis as it allows us to solve complex circuits and ensure proper functioning. In real-world circuits, it is applied by creating and solving a system of equations. It can be applied to both series and parallel circuits, but it has limitations such as assuming ideal conditions and not accounting for capacitance and inductance.
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[SOLVED] Kirchoff's Rule on Circuits

Homework Statement


http://img296.imageshack.us/img296/7852/question1zu0.th.jpg

What is the potential difference V_{ab} of point a relative to point b?

I found out earlier that the current in the top branch is 0.8 A

In the middle is 0.2 A

and at the bottom is 0.6A


Homework Equations



So V = IR - IR





The Attempt at a Solution



3*(0.8) - 4*(0.2) = 1.6V



But this isn't working for me...what am I doing wrong?
 
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  • #2
the direction of 0.2 A current is in opposite direction...
 
  • #3
oh thanks a lot!
 

1. What is Kirchoff's Rule on Circuits?

Kirchoff's Rule on Circuits, also known as Kirchoff's Current Law and Kirchoff's Voltage Law, is a fundamental law in circuit analysis that states that the sum of currents entering and exiting a node in an electrical circuit must be equal to zero. Additionally, the sum of voltage drops and gains in a closed loop must also be equal to zero.

2. Why is Kirchoff's Rule important in circuit analysis?

Kirchoff's Rule is important because it allows us to mathematically analyze and solve complex electrical circuits. By applying these rules, we can determine the unknown voltages and currents in a circuit and ensure that the circuit is functioning properly.

3. How is Kirchoff's Rule applied in real-world circuits?

Kirchoff's Rule can be applied in real-world circuits by creating a system of equations based on the currents and voltages in the circuit. These equations can then be solved using techniques such as substitution or elimination to find the unknown values.

4. Can Kirchoff's Rule be applied to both series and parallel circuits?

Yes, Kirchoff's Rule can be applied to both series and parallel circuits. In series circuits, the sum of voltage drops in each component must equal the total voltage supplied by the power source. In parallel circuits, the sum of currents entering and exiting a node must be equal to the total current provided by the power source.

5. What are the limitations of Kirchoff's Rule?

Kirchoff's Rule assumes certain ideal conditions, such as negligible resistance in wires and perfect circuit components. In reality, all circuits have some amount of resistance, which may affect the accuracy of Kirchoff's Rule. Additionally, this rule does not take into account the effects of capacitance and inductance in circuits.

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