Equivalent circuits resistor problem

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the equivalent resistance (Req) in a circuit involving resistors arranged in both series and parallel configurations. Participants are attempting to analyze a circuit diagram that is not clearly presented, which complicates their understanding of the connections between the resistors.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are exploring the idea of breaking the circuit into parallel sets, specifically identifying combinations of resistors (Parallel1 and Parallel2). There are questions regarding the connections between resistors and the implications of those connections on the overall circuit. Some participants are also suggesting the use of visual aids to clarify the circuit layout.

Discussion Status

Some participants have confirmed parts of the original poster's approach, particularly regarding Parallel2. There is ongoing exploration of how different resistors are connected and how that affects the calculation of Req. The discussion is active, with multiple interpretations being considered, but no consensus has been reached yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are facing challenges due to the unclear diagram and the lack of a definitive solution in the textbook. There are also references to the need for better visual representation to aid understanding.

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Homework Statement



Find Req.


Homework Equations



Series: R1 + R2 + ...

Parallel: 1/(1/R1 + 1/R2 + ...)

The Attempt at a Solution



There's no solution for this one in the book but I'm thinking that I can break this up into two parallel sets. Parallel1 = (R1*R4)/(R1 + R4) and Parallel2 = (R3*R2)/(R3 + R2). Is that correct?
 

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It's not exactly very easy figuring out that diagram, why not do it properly on paint and then upload the image?
 
NewtonianAlch said:
It's not exactly very easy figuring out that diagram, why not do it properly on paint and then upload the image?

Yeah it didn't keep the white space. Sorry
 
Your parallel2 is correct.

What is inbetween the right end of R4 and the bottom end of R1?
 
Integral said:
Your parallel2 is correct.

What is inbetween the right end of R4 and the bottom end of R1?

The same voltage?
 
Oh wait.. If I combine Parallel2 into the circuit as one unit it will now be in between the right end of R4 and the bottom end of R1.
 
If you consider R1 and R4 in parallel, it has to be connected to the negative terminal right? What's helping completing the circuit?
 
NewtonianAlch said:
If you consider R1 and R4 in parallel, it has to be connected to the negative terminal right? What's helping completing the circuit?

Parallel2
 
http://slimber.com/index.php?image=resistors.g80803

See if that helps you visualize it better
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #10
NewtonianAlch said:
http://slimber.com/index.php?image=resistors.g80803

See if that helps you visualize it better

Sort of.. If it was drawn like that then would the solution be:

1/(1/R1 + 1/(R4 +R2) + 1/R3) ?
 
Last edited by a moderator:

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