Closing a Circuit Homework: Solving for R_eq, I, & Delta V

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a circuit homework problem involving resistors in parallel and series. The key equations utilized include R_eq = delta V / I and R_eq = [1/R_1 + 1/R_n]^-1. The user successfully calculated the equivalent resistance (R_eq) as 3.529 ohms after closing the switch and determined the current through various resistors using I = V / R. Further assistance was requested for calculating the current through each resistor and the voltage drop across them.

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  • Understanding of Ohm's Law (I = V / R)
  • Knowledge of calculating equivalent resistance in parallel circuits
  • Familiarity with voltage and current concepts in electrical circuits
  • Ability to apply circuit analysis techniques
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  • Learn how to calculate current through individual resistors in parallel circuits
  • Study the concept of voltage drop across resistors in series and parallel
  • Explore the use of Kirchhoff's laws for circuit analysis
  • Investigate power dissipation in resistors using the formula Power = I x delta V
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Students studying electrical engineering, physics students tackling circuit problems, and anyone seeking to improve their understanding of circuit analysis and resistor configurations.

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Homework Statement



http://jbworld.jbs.st-louis.mo.us/science/mschober/em3-circuits/E3ws4.pdf

It's the very first one.


Homework Equations



R_eq = delta V / I = [ 1/R_1 + 1/R_n] ^ -1

I = V / R

The Attempt at a Solution



a) So, since the resistors are in parallel, the potential different across the three different resistors have to be same.

The given, I have 6V.

Therefore, delta V from a to b should be 0 V to 6 V.

b) Current between a and b :

I_a to b= V / R_ab = 6 V / 12 ohm = 1/2 A

I_c to d= 6V / 6 ohm = 1 A

c) Since it is just a wire, current point at g should be 6 V / 0 ohm = 0 A

d ) before the switch is closed, I do not have a current flow, so .. resistance is zero.

After the switch is closed,

R_eq = [1/12 + 1/6 + 1/30]^-1 = 3.529 ohm



Does everything sounds good to anyone? :( man. I suck at circuit.


---------

shoot,

um.. can somebody help me with the number 6 also?

I solved a:

R_a to b & c to d = [1/12 + 1/6]^-1 = 4ohm
then R_eq = 4ohm + 8 ohm = 12 ohm

But how can I find the each resistor's current passing and delta V ( b and c )??

Since the Power = I x delta V , I guess I can help myself if I find b and c.

HELP~~~~ please ~~~
 
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Questions (1a) and (1b) are asking about the difference in voltage and current when the switch is open or closed. For (1c), in order for the current to get from the source to the resistors (and back) it must pass through point g. In question (1d), while the switch is open, current can flow through the 12 Ohm and 6 Ohm resistors, when the switch is closed, current can flow through all three resistors.
 
In question (6a) you calculated the equivalent resistance of the whole circuit, and are given the voltage. From this you should be able to calculate the current through the whole circuit, then the current through each resistor, and finally the [itex]\Delta V[/itex] and power dissipated across each resistor.
 

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