Find the current and potential difference

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the current and potential difference across each resistor in a circuit. The equivalent resistance was determined through a combination of parallel and series calculations, resulting in an overall equivalent resistance of 12 ohms. With a voltage of 24V applied, the total current was calculated to be 2 amps. Participants clarified the arrangement of resistors, confirming that the 4-ohm resistor is in series with the equivalent resistance of the parallel resistors. The conversation emphasizes the importance of correctly identifying the configuration of the resistors to solve for current distribution accurately.
spice1510
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Homework Statement


For the circuit shown in the figure, find the current through and the potential difference across each resistor.
http://session.masteringphysics.com/problemAsset/1169464/1/jfk.Figure.23.P60.jpg


Homework Equations


V=I(amps)/R(ohms) and Req=R1+R2+R3...


The Attempt at a Solution


Rearranging the circuit:
R(8ohm) and R(24ohm) are parallel so (1/8+1/24)^-1=6ohm
that created a series of R(6ohm)+R(6ohm) so R6+R6=R(12ohm)
now I have the first circuit R(4ohm) in parallel with R(12ohm) and R(24ohm)
(1/4+1/12+1/24)^-1=2.67ohm for equivalent resistance for the entire circuit

24V=I*2.67ohm
I=9Amps

across the 4ohm resistor the current is? I=9A because the current is the same or is it 9A divided across the 3 parallel resistors?

I'm either getting it wrong because I put the 4ohm by itself (before the junction correct?) or if it's in series with the 2 6ohm resistors then that's my error but I've definitely tried it 4 different ways and am getting something wrong.
 
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spice1510 said:

Homework Statement


For the circuit shown in the figure, find the current through and the potential difference across each resistor.
http://session.masteringphysics.com/problemAsset/1169464/1/jfk.Figure.23.P60.jpg


Homework Equations


V=I(amps)/R(ohms) and Req=R1+R2+R3...


The Attempt at a Solution


Rearranging the circuit:
R(8ohm) and R(24ohm) are parallel so (1/8+1/24)^-1=6ohm
that created a series of R(6ohm)+R(6ohm) so R6+R6=R(12ohm)
now I have the first circuit R(4ohm) in parallel with R(12ohm) and R(24ohm)

No, the 12Ω and 24Ω are in parallel. The 4V is in series with the (12V & 24V) combination.

(1/4+1/12+1/24)^-1=2.67ohm for equivalent resistance for the entire circuit

24V=I*2.67ohm
I=9Amps

across the 4ohm resistor the current is? I=9A because the current is the same or is it 9A divided across the 3 parallel resistors?

I'm either getting it wrong because I put the 4ohm by itself (before the junction correct?) or if it's in series with the 2 6ohm resistors then that's my error but I've definitely tried it 4 different ways and am getting something wrong.

Homework Statement



Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution

See the comment in red.
 
so 4ohm in series with (1/12+1/24)^-1 which equals 8ohm

4ohm+8ohm (series)=12ohm for the entire circuit

24V=12ohm*I
I=2amps
 
Last edited:
spice1510 said:
so 4ohm in series with (1/12+1/24)^-1 which equals 8ohm

4ohm+8ohm (series)=12ohm for the entire circuit

24V=12ohm*I
I=2amps
Yes.

Now, work your way back through all the resistors.
 
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