What is the solution to calculating current and power in a circuit?

In summary, the conversation discusses determining the power delivered by a current source to a circuit and how to calculate the potential of different parts of the circuit. For part a, the answer is 400w and 1ma respectively, but the method to arrive at this answer is unclear. For part b, it is suggested to introduce two unknown potentials and use Kirchhofs current rule to set up equations and solve for the unknown potentials. There is confusion about which parts of the circuit are referenced when discussing the potential at the top and bottom.
  • #1
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Homework Statement




http://img69.imageshack.us/img69/3523/42317761.jpg
http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/7240/82479056.jpg

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



The answer is 400w and 1ma respectively, but how do I get to it?
 
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  • #2
How much power does a current source deliver to a circuit? On what depends it?
Can you figure out what the potential of the various parts of the circuit is?

For part b:

1. introduce two unknown potentials for the two points where 3 resistances meet. The
potentials at the top and bottom of the circuit are +40 mv and 0.

2. compute the currents in all five resistors as a function of the 2 unknown potentials

3. use Kirchhofs current rule in the points with unknown potential from step 1 to set up 2 equations for the unknown potentials

4. solve the equations

5. compute any current needed for the answer
 
  • #3
for part a should I simplify the circuit? otherwise I am still lost on how to do it

and I am even more confused by your explanation in part b, which one are you referring when you say potential at top and bottom?
 

1. What is the difference between current, voltage, and power?

Current is the flow of electric charge through a conductor, measured in amperes (A). Voltage is the measure of electric potential difference between two points, measured in volts (V). Power is the rate at which electrical energy is transferred or used, measured in watts (W).

2. How are current, voltage, and power related?

Current, voltage, and power are related through Ohm's Law, which states that current is equal to voltage divided by resistance (I = V/R). Power is equal to current multiplied by voltage (P = IV). This means that changes in one of these variables can affect the others.

3. What is the unit for measuring current, voltage, and power?

The unit for measuring current is amperes (A), for voltage it is volts (V), and for power it is watts (W). Other common units include milliamperes (mA) for small currents and kilowatts (kW) for large powers.

4. How is current affected by resistance?

The higher the resistance in a circuit, the lower the current will be. This is because resistance impedes the flow of current. Inversely, the lower the resistance, the higher the current will be.

5. What is the importance of understanding current, voltage, and power in everyday life?

Understanding current, voltage, and power is important in everyday life because electricity is a fundamental aspect of modern society. It allows us to power our homes, use electronic devices, and even recharge our phones. By understanding these concepts, we can make informed decisions about our energy usage and potentially save money on our electricity bills.

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