Differential Equation Approach to solving First Order Circuits

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around methods for transient circuit analysis in engineering, specifically focusing on the differential equation approach compared to a step-by-step method. Participants explore the formulation and solution of first-order circuits using differential equations and Kirchhoff's laws.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that there are two primary methods for solving transient circuits: a step-by-step approach and a differential equation approach.
  • Another participant suggests using Kirchhoff's laws to form a linear differential equation (DE) for the circuit analysis.
  • A different participant mentions the use of Kirchhoff's Voltage Law (KVL) and Kirchhoff's Current Law (KCL) to derive the necessary equations for the differential equation approach.
  • One participant questions whether the step-by-step approach refers to the Laplace transform method and expresses a preference for using the Laplace transform.
  • Another participant states they are unfamiliar with the Laplace transform method and emphasizes the simplicity of the differential equation approach, describing the process of writing equations for KVL and KCL to derive a linear DE.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing familiarity with the Laplace transform method, with some preferring it while others focus solely on the differential equation approach. The discussion does not reach a consensus on the preferred method or the relationship between the step-by-step approach and the Laplace transform.

Contextual Notes

There is a lack of clarity regarding the definitions of the step-by-step approach and its potential equivalence to the Laplace transform method. Participants do not resolve the specifics of how to apply the differential equation approach in detail.

RadiationX
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We are doing transient circuit analysis in one of my engineering courses.
There are two ways of solving these types of circuits:

1. The step by step approach

2. The differential equation approach.

The step by step method is well documented in our textbook, but the differential equation approach is not.

Does anyone know of a website that describes how to use the differential equation approach for solving first order transient circuits?
 
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Dunno the website, but you use Kirchoff's laws (Potential drop across a loop =0) to form a linear DE which you solve.
 
chaoseverlasting said:
Dunno the website, but you use Kirchoff's laws (Potential drop across a loop =0) to form a linear DE which you solve.

For the differential approach, use KVL and KCL. Write down the device rules (i(t) = C dv(t)/dt), etc... combine them by solving for the appropriate variables.
 
I am curious, is the step by step approach the Laplace transform method, if not, is there any reason you could not use said method. I prefer to use the Laplace transform myself.
 
Err... I don't know the Laplace transform approach, just the DE one. Its pretty simple. You just write out the equations for KVL and KCL, and then write current as dq/dt or emf as L di/dt to get a Linear DE and solve that.
 

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