Are These Node Voltage Equations Correct?

  • Thread starter Thread starter TheRedDevil18
  • Start date Start date
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the correctness of node voltage equations derived for a circuit, with participants examining the setup of these equations and potential errors in their formulation. The context includes homework-related problem-solving and the application of nodal analysis in circuit theory.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question the correctness of the node voltage equations presented, specifically noting potential sign errors and the need to follow current paths when determining voltage differences.
  • One participant suggests that the equations appear correct at first glance but expresses a preference for loop equations, indicating a possible bias in approach.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of correctly identifying current directions and points out specific errors in the equations related to the flow of current.
  • Some participants advocate for a method of nodal analysis that simplifies the process by focusing on KCL at unknown nodes, arguing that this can reduce mistakes.
  • There is a suggestion that drawing and labeling currents may complicate the analysis, with a preference for directly finding node voltages instead.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the correctness of the node voltage equations, with some identifying errors while others believe the setup is acceptable. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the accuracy of the equations.

Contextual Notes

Participants note potential limitations in the equations due to sign errors and assumptions about current directions, which may affect the overall correctness of the analysis.

TheRedDevil18
Messages
406
Reaction score
2

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 ?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
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
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
5K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
5K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K