Analyzing currents in parallel in circuit diagrams

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around analyzing currents in parallel circuit diagrams, specifically focusing on a homework problem involving the calculation of currents through various resistors in a parallel configuration. Participants share their attempts at solutions and seek clarification on their approaches.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions that all elements are confirmed to be in parallel and begins labeling nodes to facilitate their calculations.
  • Another participant suggests using an app to improve the quality of the circuit diagram for better clarity in the discussion.
  • There are multiple suggestions for apps that can help participants post images of their diagrams, indicating a need for visual aids in the discussion.
  • A participant prompts another to consider the relationship between the current from a voltage source and the current through a specific resistor to calculate another current in the circuit.
  • One participant acknowledges a realization about their calculations after the homework was due, indicating a learning moment rather than a resolution of the problem.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the solution to the problem, and there are indications of uncertainty regarding the calculations and methods used. The discussion remains unresolved as participants continue to explore their approaches.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the clarity of the circuit diagrams being discussed, as some participants express difficulties in sharing readable images. Additionally, the calculations and relationships between currents are not fully resolved, leaving room for further exploration.

Who May Find This Useful

Students working on circuit analysis, particularly those dealing with parallel circuits and current calculations, may find this discussion relevant.

Mark Nussbaum

Homework Statement


upload_2017-9-16_2-31-41.png


Homework Equations


V=IR
parallel resistance.

The Attempt at a Solution


All elements are in parallel (teacher confirmed this in explanation to the class). Beginning placing labels for nodes to the right of R1, A, B, C, D, and E (ending before R4) and redrawing it as the teacher showed to get us started...
upload_2017-9-16_2-56-16.png

Once I add the currents together in the original equation I end up with .1A left over...
(sorry about low quality don't know how to get it to a webpage.)
 

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Imgur is another way to post pics. Free app for phones, and it can generate the BBCode to link to the pic.
 
Imgur is another way to post pics. Free app for phones, and it can generate the BBCode to link to the pic.
 
Mark Nussbaum, are you still working on this? You know the current from the .5 Vx source and you know the current through R4 (it's the same as I5); do you see how those two allow you to calculate I4?
 
Yeah I realized it after it was due but now I'll know for next time.
 

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