Find the Total Current in a Single Loop Circuit

Join the discussion
Registration is free. Ask a follow-up in this thread, or start your own.
2 replies · 4K views
Walley1
Messages
10
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Find the current flowing through the circuit.
http://wildedge.zxq.net/IMG.jpg

Homework Equations


Amps=Total Voltage / Total Resistance

The Attempt at a Solution


(20 + 12 + 12 + 3) / (10 + 5 + 30 + 40 + 20 + 15)=0.39A

I'm almost certain that this is wrong. I don't even know if the formula I used is actually valid. Any help you can provide would be greatly appreciated.

On an unrelated note, has anyone seen a good explanation of the right-hand rule (for magnetic fields)?

***Sometimes, the image might not display. I don't know why. If that happens, right click the little icon that shows in its place and copy the image URL.
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
Your Relevant Equation is okay, but beware that the polarity of the individual voltage sources matter; look closely at each of the battery symbols as you 'go around' the loop.
 
if you go around the loop carefully, i think the answer is (-20+12+12-3)/(5+30+40+20+15+10)=0.00833A