Calculating Wheatstone Bridge with R1=600, R2=R3=R4=400, V Supply=10V

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the output voltage in a Wheatstone bridge circuit with specified resistor values and supply voltage. Participants explore the implications of resistor values on the balance of the bridge and the resulting voltage measurements, as well as a related problem involving strain gauges and load applications.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion over their calculation of the Wheatstone bridge output voltage, using a specific formula and arriving at an unexpected result.
  • Another participant points out that the Wheatstone bridge is not balanced with the given resistor values and suggests checking all resistance values.
  • A different participant assumes the goal is to find the voltage across the bridge and claims the formula used is incorrect, recommending a check on Wikipedia for clarification.
  • One participant proposes that the voltage at the junctions of the bridge can be determined based on the resistor values, calculating a voltage difference of 1 volt between the two junctions.
  • Another participant acknowledges a mistake in units and seeks further assistance with the problem.
  • A later post introduces a new problem involving strain gauges, asking how to calculate output voltage when a specific load is applied, while mentioning relevant formulas for stress and strain.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the correct approach to calculating the output voltage for the Wheatstone bridge, with multiple competing views and suggestions presented. The discussion also introduces a separate problem regarding strain gauges, which remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Some participants reference the need for a balanced Wheatstone bridge and the implications of using specific resistor values, while others highlight potential errors in calculations and units. The discussion includes assumptions about the intended calculations and the context of the problems presented.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals studying electrical circuits, specifically those interested in Wheatstone bridges and strain gauge applications, as well as those seeking assistance with related calculations.

orla22
Messages
22
Reaction score
0
if r1 has value of 600 and r2=r3=r4=400 ohms. supply voltage is 10v.
im getting the wrong answer and do not know how.

im using [(R4R2 - R3R1) / (R1+R4)(R2+R3)] * VS

i get an answer of [160000 - 240000 / (1000)(800)] * 10 = [-80000 / 80000] * 10 = -1ohm

but this is the incorrect answer. where am i going wrong?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Your Wheatstone bridge is not balanced. You cannot have r1=600 and r2=r3=r4=400 ohms. Check all your resistances.
 
Since you supplied us with all four resistance values I'm assuming that you're looking for the voltage across the bridge. If that is the case then your formula is incorrect. Check Wikipedia.
 
I think you have the right answer but the wrong units. Assuming you are looking for the voltage between the junctions at the centre of the bridge.

One side of the bridge must have two equal resistors (both 400 ohms) so the voltage must be half the supply voltage. 5 v

The other side must have a 600 and a 400 ohm resistor. So, it must have 4/10 of the supply voltage at the junction. 4 v

So there must be 1 volt difference between the two junctions. Polarity depends on how you measure it.
 
Wheatstone bridges are designed to use a sensitive galvanometer across the two junctions at the center of the bridge, and to zero the current thru the galvanometer using the bridge. If you are using a 120 ohm strain gauge, then you want (for example) three 400 ohm resistors, and a 280 ohm setting on the bridge in series with the strain gauge. Even better if you can use three 120 ohm resistors, because then you can get a direct reading of the strain gauge resistor on the bridge setting..
 
hi all, could you possibly help me with this problem?

R1 and R2 are 2 guages with resistance of 100 ohm.
A steel bar has diameter 45mm and modulus of steel bar is 170GN/m^2 and gauge factor of 2. How would I calculate Vout when a load of 35kN is applied?

i know what the Vout formula is and stress = tensile strain x YM.

thanks
 

Attachments

  • WS.jpg
    WS.jpg
    11.8 KB · Views: 565

Similar threads

  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
5K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
10K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • · Replies 31 ·
2
Replies
31
Views
9K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
14K