Current Division Rule: Solving for Currents

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the application of the current division rule in electrical circuits, specifically in the context of finding currents in a circuit that includes resistances, capacitors, and inductors. Participants explore the conditions under which the current division rule can be applied and compare it to traditional methods of calculating current.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant attempted to use the current division rule and traditional methods (V=IR) to find currents but found discrepancies in the results.
  • Another participant questioned the initial approach due to the presence of more than just resistances in the circuit, suggesting the need to consider impedance for capacitors and inductors.
  • A participant clarified that the traditional method involved calculating voltage drops across parallel branches and using V=I/Z to find currents.
  • A later reply indicated that the initial confusion stemmed from a mistake in substituting values, leading to a resolution of the issue.
  • One participant emphasized the importance of sharing working steps to facilitate better understanding and troubleshooting.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion reflects a lack of consensus on the application of the current division rule, with participants highlighting different approaches and the importance of considering circuit components beyond simple resistances.

Contextual Notes

Participants did not fully explore the conditions necessary for applying the current division rule in circuits with reactive components, nor did they resolve the implications of impedance on the calculations.

jra12222
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Hi all,

I was working the following example:
upload_2018-12-2_5-57-40.png

where I need to find the currents. I tried solving using the traditional V=IR => I=V/R,
and then I tried with the current division rule. However with the current division rule the answers don't match.
Also according to the answers on the book the correct answer is the first one.
Are there some conditions when using the current division rule?
 

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I don't know what the first one is since you didn't tell us. However, you have more than resistance in this circuit. Do you know how to get the impedance for a capacitor and an inductor?
 
Oh no the first is the traditional one, I basically found voltage drop across the the parallel branches and then found the current using V=I/Z.
Yes inductive and capacitive resistances are correct
 
OH never mind I just noticed I was making a mistake in the substitution of the values! I've been trying to figure it out for the past hour :(
Sorry for this!
Consider this thread closed
Thanks :)
 
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Likes   Reactions: berkeman and Tom.G
That's why we like people to post their working.
 
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Likes   Reactions: jim hardy

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