Calculating Amperes for converging electrical pathway

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the current in a converging electrical pathway where an initial current of 10 amperes splits into three pathways, with two of the pathways labeled as carrying 4 and 6 amperes. The context suggests a focus on electrical circuits and current flow.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the lack of clarity regarding the direction of current flow in the pathways and the absence of angles in the diagram. Questions arise about the application of Kirchhoff's current law (KCL) and the need for a diagram to clarify the situation.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants seeking clarification on the problem setup and exploring the application of KCL. Some guidance has been offered regarding the interpretation of the diagram and the relevance of current direction.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of missing information, such as the direction of the currents in the pathways and the need for a diagram to facilitate understanding. The original poster expresses uncertainty about the equations to use, indicating a potential gap in foundational knowledge.

Obama
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Homework Statement



Question shows one arrow with 10 amperes heading in one direction, which splits into three different pathways. having two labels of 4 and 6 amperes.

Homework Equations



To be honest I don't know what equations I would use; the courseware really wasn't much help.

The Attempt at a Solution



The only answer I could guess was zero.
 
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Obama said:

Homework Statement



Question shows one arrow with 10 amperes heading in one direction, which splits into three different pathways. having two labels of 4 and 6 amperes.

Homework Equations



To be honest I don't know what equations I would use; the courseware really wasn't much help.

The Attempt at a Solution



The only answer I could guess was zero.
Were direction arrows given for the 4 and 6 ampere currents?
 
No angles were given; they just point away from the first arrow
 
So what is your question?

Some form of a diagram would be a big help.
 
Obama said:
No angles were given; they just point away from the first arrow

Angles? The arrows should parallel the wires that they are associated with. They will show the direction that the current flows in the given wire. If you have those directions, then investigate Kirchhoff's current law (KCL) in your notes.
 
Attached is the diagram for the question, I need to find the value of "I". Thanks
 

Attachments

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    Diagram.jpg
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Obama said:
Attached is the diagram for the question, I need to find the value of "I". Thanks

Did you investigate KCL?
 
Yeah, I just got it, thanks !
 

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