Circuits Superposition Problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a circuit problem using the superposition theorem to find the voltage drop across a 4-ohm resistor in a circuit with a 20V source. The user initially calculated a total voltage drop of 28V across the resistors, which contradicts the 20V source, indicating an error in their approach. The community suggests that the user correctly identified the potential drop due to the 20V source but needs to accurately account for the current distribution between the resistors, particularly the 12-ohm resistor, to correctly solve for the voltage across the 4-ohm resistor.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the superposition theorem in circuit analysis
  • Familiarity with Ohm's Law (V=IR)
  • Basic knowledge of series and parallel resistor configurations
  • Ability to analyze current distribution in circuits
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the superposition theorem in electrical circuits
  • Practice solving circuits with multiple sources using the superposition method
  • Learn about current division in parallel resistors
  • Explore circuit simulation tools like LTspice for visualizing circuit behavior
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Electrical engineering students, circuit designers, and anyone studying circuit analysis techniques, particularly those focusing on the superposition theorem and resistor networks.

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Homework Statement



I have attached a pdf of the problem I am working on. The top circuit is the original problem; I am supposed to solve for the voltage drop across the 4-ohm resistor (top right). I HAVE to use the superposition theorem to solve this problem. The 4 circuits drawn below the top circuit are where I eliminated the current source in an attempt to solve for the currents/voltages on each resistor. Can someone please check my work thus far and let me know where I made a mistake? I think there is a mistake because when I take I*R fr each resistor and add them up, I get 28V which doesn't equal my 20V source. Thanks in advance for your help!



Homework Equations


V=IR



The Attempt at a Solution



See attached pdf.
 

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Your result for the potential drop across the 4Ω resistor due to the 20V source looks fine. The currents that you've labeled also look okay. So my question would be, what sum of potential drops across resistors did you make that added to 28V? Note that all the resistors are not in series...
 
So far, so good - but keep in mind thast the current from your 4th figure is split between the 6 and the 12 ohm resistors and you really want the current thru the 12 ohm which is the current thru the 4 ohm which is what you're really after.

So now do the current source!
 

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