Thevinin vs Norton: What's the Difference?

  • Thread starter Ali Inam
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In summary, the basic difference between a Thevenin equivalent and a Norton equivalent is that the former simplifies a complex circuit into a voltage source in series with a resistance, while the latter simplifies it into a current source and parallel resistance. However, they both represent the same thing in different ways. Additionally, it is important to note that the current in Thevenin (Ith) is not necessarily the same as the current in Norton (In). This difference is often joked about, with the idea that Norton "stole" Thevenin's theorem by using a source transformation.
  • #1
Ali Inam
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What is the basic difference between a thevinin equivalent and a norton equivalent ? !

Can we assume that Ith (from the thevinin) and In (from the Norton) are same ? !
 
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  • #2
The basic difference is, for the given complex circuit with many elements, in Thevenin terms, we find equivalent voltage Vth and resistance Rth across a point AB ie., the circuit is simplified into a voltage source in series with a resistance connected to AB.
While in Norton terms, we find equivalent current source and parallel resistance across AB. They are just two ways of representing the same thing.
Also note [itex] Ith \neq In [/itex]
 
  • #3
We always joked in school that Norton stole Thevenin's therem by doing a source transformation. :)
 

1. What is the difference between Thevinin and Norton circuits?

Thevinin and Norton circuits are two equivalent circuit models used to simplify complex circuits. The main difference between them is that Thevinin circuits use a voltage source and a series resistance, while Norton circuits use a current source and a parallel resistance.

2. Which circuit model is better to use?

Both Thevinin and Norton circuits have their advantages and can be used interchangeably in most cases. The choice of which model to use depends on the specific circuit and the desired analysis. Some circuit analysis techniques may be easier to apply with one model over the other.

3. Can Thevinin and Norton circuits be converted into each other?

Yes, Thevinin and Norton circuits are equivalent and can be converted into each other. The Thevinin equivalent resistance is equal to the Norton parallel resistance, and the Thevinin voltage source is equal to the Norton current source multiplied by the equivalent resistance.

4. How do Thevinin and Norton circuits affect circuit analysis?

Thevinin and Norton circuits greatly simplify circuit analysis by reducing a complex circuit into a simpler equivalent circuit. This reduces the number of components and makes calculations easier. Additionally, Thevinin and Norton circuits are useful in determining the maximum power transfer in a circuit.

5. Are there any limitations to using Thevinin and Norton circuits?

While Thevinin and Norton circuits are generally useful in simplifying circuit analysis, they have some limitations. They are only applicable to linear circuits, and cannot be used in circuits with nonlinear elements or time-varying components. Additionally, the Thevinin and Norton equivalent circuits may not accurately represent the behavior of the original circuit at very high frequencies.

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