Why does switching this circuit on take longer

  • Thread starter Pochen Liu
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In summary, the circuit discussed has a delay when switching on that is twice as long as the delay when switching off. This is due to the inductor opposing the change in current, causing the lighting of bulb B to slow down. When switching off, the time constant changes from L/R to L/2R because the voltage source is removed and Kirchoff's Voltage Law is applied. This results in a different equation and a difference in the current through bulb A and bulb B during switching on.
  • #1
Pochen Liu
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Homework Statement


In this circuit, switching on is about twice as long as the delay for switching off
upload_2018-11-2_16-33-38.png

2. Homework Equations
3. The Attempt at a Solution

When switching this circuit on the inductor will oppose the change of current therefore basically slow down the lighting of bulb B.

When switching off it opposes the change in current so bulb B will remain lighter for a little bit however why does the time constant change from L/R to L/2R?
 

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  • #2
Because when you switch off the voltage source is removed, and what do you get if you apply Kirchoff's Voltage Law in the closed loop that contains bulb A, bulb B and the inductor? Notice that the same current runs everywhere now through both bulbs and the inductor.
During switching on, there is the voltage source in the circuit which makes the current through bulb A different than the current through bulb B. That's the key difference between the two cases. if you apply KVL for the same loop during the switching on case, you get different equation.
 
Last edited:

1. Why does switching this circuit on take longer?

The time it takes to switch a circuit on depends on various factors such as the complexity of the circuit, the components used, and the power source. In general, the larger the circuit and the more components it has, the longer it will take to switch on. Additionally, if the power source is weak or unstable, it may take longer for the circuit to receive enough energy to turn on.

2. What causes a circuit to take longer to switch on?

A circuit may take longer to switch on due to a number of reasons including a high number of components, faulty or damaged components, insufficient power supply, or a faulty switch. It is important to troubleshoot and identify the root cause of the delay in order to fix the issue.

3. Can the length of wires affect the time it takes to switch a circuit on?

Yes, the length of wires can have an impact on the time it takes to switch a circuit on. Longer wires create more resistance, which can slow down the flow of electricity and result in a longer switch-on time. It is important to use the appropriate wire gauge and keep wire lengths as short as possible to minimize delays in switching on a circuit.

4. Is there a way to reduce the time it takes to switch a circuit on?

Yes, there are several ways to reduce the time it takes to switch a circuit on. One way is to use high-quality components that have a lower resistance, allowing electricity to flow more easily. Another way is to use a more powerful and stable power source. Additionally, minimizing the length of wires and keeping them organized can also help reduce switch-on time.

5. How can I troubleshoot and fix a circuit that takes a long time to switch on?

To troubleshoot and fix a circuit that takes a long time to switch on, start by checking the components for any signs of damage or wear. Make sure the power source is adequate and stable. Check the wiring and connections for any loose or damaged wires. If the issue persists, consult a professional or refer to the circuit's user manual for further troubleshooting steps.

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