Engineering Electricity - Solving unknown variables for mixed circuits

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around solving for unknown variables in a mixed circuit using Kirchhoff's and Ohm's laws. The initial calculations incorrectly added resistors R1 and R3, which are in different loops, leading to discrepancies with textbook answers. Participants emphasize the need to find the equivalent resistance first, noting that R1 and R2 are in parallel. Correcting the approach involves recognizing the circuit's configuration to accurately calculate voltages and currents. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding circuit topology in electrical engineering problems.
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Homework Statement


7. Find V1, V2, V3, I0, I1, I2, and I3 for the circuit in Figure 2.

photo.JPG


V0 = 120V
R3=15 ohms
R1=3 ohms
R2 = 6 ohms

Homework Equations


Kirchoff's law
Ohm's law

The Attempt at a Solution

R0 = R1 + R3
= 3 + 15
=18 ohms I0=V0/R0
=120/128
=6.66A

I1=I3=I0
I1=I3=6.66AV3=R0 X I3
= 18 X 6.66
=99.9V

V1=V0 - V3
=120-99.9
=20.1V

V2=V1
V1=20.1V
I2 = V2/R2
= 20.1/6
=3.35A

This is what I did but when I look at the back of the textbook it gives me different answers.
 
Last edited:
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First equation is wrong. You can't add those two resistors.

Find an equivalent resistance first.
 
SirAskalot said:
First equation is wrong. You can't add those two resistors.

Find an equivalent resistance first.

How come you can't add R1 and R3? Aren't they both in a series circuit?
 
You can't add them because they are in different loops. R1 and R2 are in parallel, so start from there.
 

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