Solving for Ix: Find Current Given R & V

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The discussion focuses on calculating the current Ix in a circuit with given resistances and voltages. The initial calculation of total current through a reduced resistance was incorrect, as it did not account for the parallel paths in the circuit. Participants emphasized the importance of applying Kirchhoff's law to properly analyze current division among branches. After reevaluating the circuit, the correct current was determined to be approximately 139.0438 μA. Understanding the circuit's configuration and current paths is crucial for accurate calculations.
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Homework Statement


What is ix (in μA)? Given all R and V.

1.jpg


Homework Equations


V=IR


The Attempt at a Solution


I reduced the circuit into just one Req = 20.778 kohms and find the current through the reduced circuit to be 240.6375 uA (5V/20778 ohms). Since current flowing in series is the same, Ix through the 10 kohms is also 240.6375 uA.

Would anyone please tell me where I am doing wrong here?

Many thanks in advance!
 
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The element carrying Ix has a path in parallel to it: the current through the 15k resistor is shared between two parallel paths.

What did your circuit look like just before you collapsed it all into one resistance? :smile:
 
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what u r finding is the total current. the current however splits into 3 branches at the junctions. i wouldn't recommend this problem until u have covered kirchhoffs law
 
NascentOxygen said:
The element carrying Ix has a path in parallel to it: the current through the 15k resistor is shared between two parallel paths.

What did your circuit look like just before you collapsed it all into one resistance? :smile:


It was 15 kohms + the reduced resistance (including 10, 10, 4, and 47 kohms resistors). Do you mean that the current I found has to be divided between the 10 and the rest of the reduced resistors (10, 4, 47)?
 
Arkavo said:
what u r finding is the total current. the current however splits into 3 branches at the junctions. i wouldn't recommend this problem until u have covered kirchhoffs law

I did. I just need to practice more. So I thru 15 = I thru 10 + I thru combined (10, 4, 47)?
 
xlu2 said:
It was 15 kohms + the reduced resistance (including 10, 10, 4, and 47 kohms resistors). Do you mean that the current I found has to be divided between the 10 and the rest of the reduced resistors (10, 4, 47)?

Yes.
 
NascentOxygen said:
Yes.

I got I = 139.0438 μA.
 
xlu2 said:
I got I = 139.0438 μA.

Looks right.
 
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