Equivalent circuit with resistors neither in series nor parallel

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the equivalent resistance between two terminals in a circuit with resistors that are neither in series nor parallel. Participants explore various methods for solving the problem, including circuit analysis techniques and transformations.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about how to approach the problem and requests assistance.
  • Another participant inquires about the original poster's familiarity with circuit analysis methods, specifically Kirchhoff's laws and mesh, loop, or nodal analysis.
  • The original poster confirms knowledge of Kirchhoff's laws but questions their applicability to the specific problem of calculating open-circuit resistance.
  • A suggestion is made to introduce a current source at one terminal and calculate the voltage at that node to find the equivalent resistance using the formula V/I.
  • Another participant proposes using a delta-Y conversion as a simpler alternative to applying Kirchhoff's laws for this problem.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple approaches to solving the problem, with no consensus on a single method. Some participants advocate for using Kirchhoff's laws, while others suggest alternative techniques like delta-Y conversion.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights varying levels of familiarity with circuit analysis methods among participants, which may affect the applicability of suggested solutions.

Who May Find This Useful

Students or individuals interested in circuit analysis, particularly those dealing with complex resistor networks and seeking different methods for calculating equivalent resistance.

chollins
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Homework Statement


all resistors have arbitrary values. the equivalent resistance needs be found between terminal a and b.

Homework Equations


I have not got a clue how to tackle this problem. as such there is no attempted solution either.

The Attempt at a Solution


any help would be great.
chollins
 

Attachments

Last edited:
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Do you know how to solve a network?

Have you studied Kirchoff's current and voltage laws?

Have you studied the mesh, loop, or nodal methods for solving networks?

We would need to know how far your studies have gone to determine what method would work best for you.
 
The Electrician said:
Do you know how to solve a network?

Have you studied Kirchoff's current and voltage laws?

Have you studied the mesh, loop, or nodal methods for solving networks?

We would need to know how far your studies have gone to determine what method would work best for you.

I have done Kirchoff's current and voltage laws and their applications in mesh, loop and nodal analysis.

I'm not sure how they will help with this problem as it is an open-circuit resistance that is being calculated.

but i could be wrong of course.

thank you for your reply
chollins
 
What you have to do is to add a current source, supplying a current of 1 amp into node a; let node b be your reference node (ground).

Then solve the network for the voltage at node a. Knowing the current I into node a (1 amp) and the voltage V at node a, the equivalent resistance will be V/I.
 
Last edited:
yeah, makes sense. I will do it later today as right now i need to sleep.

thanks for the help.
chollins
 
A much simpler way, for me at least, is to use the delta-Y conversion. That way you can use the normal series and parallel connections, without having to resort to KCL and KVL.
 

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