Are These Node Voltage Equations Correct?

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AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around the correctness of node voltage equations for a circuit analysis problem. The initial equations presented for Nodes A, B, and C were found to contain errors, particularly in the direction of current flow and sign conventions. Participants emphasized the importance of following current paths and using Kirchhoff's Current Law (KCL) for accurate analysis. A suggestion was made to first determine node voltages before calculating currents using Ohm's Law to minimize mistakes. Ultimately, the equations were clarified and corrected based on the feedback received.
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Homework Statement



Find the node voltages (diagram below)
2vb297c.jpg

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



Somehow when compared to the textbook equations they seem to be wrong, I don't know why, anyways here they are

Node A: i1-i2-ix = 0
(Va-Vc)G4 - (Va-Vb)G2 - Va*G1 = 0

Node B: i2+is-iy = 0
is = iy-i2
= Vb*G3 - (Vb-Va)G2

Node C: Vc = Vs

Are these equations correct ?, if not then why ?
 
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How many equations do you have in how many unknowns? Would you be able to solve the set?
 
phinds said:
How many equations do you have in how many unknowns? Would you be able to solve the set?

The voltage source can be taken as a constant or given, Vc = Vs, so two equations and two unknowns. I'm not too worried about solving it, I just want to know if they are set up correctly
 
Yes, they look OK. I'm so used to doing loop equations that it just seemed off at first.
 
Node A: i1-i2-ix = 0
(Va-Vc)G4 - (Va-Vb)G2 - Va*G1 = 0
For the current's directions handwritten on the schematic, the second of the two lines quoted is not correct.
The equation for i1 should be that i1 = (Vc-Va)G4
determined by saying that current flows from the higher potential to the lower.

There is a sign error in your Node B equations, also.
 
NascentOxygen said:
For the current's directions handwritten on the schematic, the second of the two lnes quoted is not correct.
The equation for i1 should be that i1 = (Vc-Va)G4
determined by saying that current flows from the higher potential to the lower.

There is a sign error in your Node B equations, also.

Oh, thank you, I see it now. I had no idea that I had to follow the currents path when working out the potential difference but I see what you mean now. My equations are correct now. Thanks for the replies guys :smile:
 
TheRedDevil18 said:

Homework Statement



Find the node voltages (diagram below)
2vb297c.jpg

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



Somehow when compared to the textbook equations they seem to be wrong, I don't know why, anyways here they are

Node A: i1-i2-ix = 0
(Va-Vc)G4 - (Va-Vb)G2 - Va*G1 = 0

Node B: i2+is-iy = 0
is = iy-i2
= Vb*G3 - (Vb-Va)G2

Node C: Vc = Vs

Are these equations correct ?, if not then why ?
I know they teach you to draw and label each current in the circuit, but in my opinion that only opens you up to making more mistakes and it takes longer. If you don't need to directly solve for a current, don't solve for it.

An easy way to do solve these types of equations is to do nodal analysis by doing a KCL at each UNKNOWN node. When you do the KCL allways do
0=sum of current into the node
or
0=sum of current out of the node

For me it makes it much easier, as it can prevent silly mistakes.

If you do need to solve for a current, I have found it is easiest to find all the node voltages, then use ohms law to find the current.
 
donpacino said:
I know they teach you to draw and label each current in the circuit, but in my opinion that only opens you up to making more mistakes and it takes longer. If you don't need to directly solve for a current, don't solve for it.

An easy way to do solve these types of equations is to do nodal analysis by doing a KCL at each UNKNOWN node. When you do the KCL allways do
0=sum of current into the node
or
0=sum of current out of the node

For me it makes it much easier, as it can prevent silly mistakes.

If you do need to solve for a current, I have found it is easiest to find all the node voltages, then use ohms law to find the current.

Ok, thanks
 

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