Determining the equivalent resistance of an irreducible network of resistors

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the equivalent resistance of an irreducible network of resistors without resorting to complex systems of equations. Participants highlight two primary methods: applying Kirchhoff's laws to write loop or nodal equations and using a Δ-Y transformation to simplify the network. The latter method is suggested as a potentially quicker approach, especially in exam situations, by exploiting symmetry in the resistor values.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Kirchhoff's laws
  • Knowledge of series and parallel equivalent resistances
  • Familiarity with Δ-Y transformations
  • Basic principles of electrical circuits
NEXT STEPS
  • Research advanced techniques for simplifying resistor networks
  • Learn about the application of symmetry in circuit analysis
  • Explore practical examples of Δ-Y transformations
  • Study the implications of using Kirchhoff's laws in complex circuits
USEFUL FOR

Students in electrical engineering, circuit designers, and anyone preparing for exams involving circuit analysis and equivalent resistance calculations.

richyw
Messages
179
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



Alright so I am having trouble finding the equivalent resistance of something like this

8236711208_093498af9d_z.jpg


Without "hooking it up" to a current source and solving a large system of equations to find the voltage drop across the network and therefore the resistance.

Is there a faster way to do this (say in an exam situation)?

Homework Equations



-kirchoffs laws
-parallel/series equivalent resistances
V=IR

The Attempt at a Solution



As I described gets me the answer. Want to know if it is the quickest way!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Unless there's a symmetry to exploit with the given values of the resistors (so that the potentials at either end of resistor R3 must be equal), there are two choices:

1. Add a supply and write three loop or nodal equations and solve

2. Use a Δ-Y transformation on one of the resistor loops and continue reducing the network
 

Similar threads

Equivalent resistance with a capacitor
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
8K
Engineering Find the Thevenin equivalent circuit
  • · Replies 42 ·
2
Replies
42
Views
6K
How to find the equivalent resistance of this electric circuit?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
Engineering Finding the Thevenin Equivalent Circuit for a Network with a Load Resistor
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Find the Norton equivalent resistance
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
I finding the Thevenin equivalent resistance
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Engineering Unknown resistor in a series-parallel circuit
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
12K
Equivalent Resistance Homework: Help Needed!
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
2K
Engineering Norton/Thevenin Equivalent circuits with a dependent voltage source
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
6K
Engineering The equivalent resistance of the circuit
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K