Finding Equivalent Resistance Using Symmetry and Kirchhoff's Laws

AI Thread Summary
Using symmetry in circuit analysis reveals that equal currents flow through opposite edges, but applying Kirchhoff's laws results in four equations that may not be independent. The discussion suggests labeling currents and node potentials to simplify the equations, particularly with a known voltage of 18V. Although the calculations can be lengthy, it is proposed that at least three simultaneous equations can be derived from Kirchhoff's current law at various junctions. The participants are seeking a more efficient method to solve the problem. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the challenge of solving complex circuit equations while exploring potential simplifications.
sktg
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Homework Statement
Twelve resistors form the edges of a cube as shown
in the figure. If the potential difference between
opposite corners A and A' is 18 V, find the equivalent
resistance between A and A'.(Figure is in 'Attempt at a Solution' section)
Relevant Equations
There are no equations in for this question.
1588704491513.png

By the use of symmetry, I have found that equal currents will flow through opposite edges like A-C and C'A', but still, the use of kirchhoffs current and voltage laws lead to four equations in four variables which I am not able to solve, neither I am sure that the four equations which I have created are independent since I have used symmetry in dividing currents.I have also tried using star delta conversion but its going too long. I think there should be some shorter method to solve this, can anyone please give a hint?(Not complete solution)
 
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I haven't worked it through, so full disclaimer this might not work, but have you tried labelling the currents AB, AC, AD with ##i_1, i_2, i_3## respectively, and also B'A', C'A', D'A' with ##i_1, i_2, i_3## respectively (due to the symmetry you mention), and then labelling the potential of each node in terms of ##V## and ##i_1, i_2, i_3## (where ##V = 18V##)? You should be able to then work out some more currents; that might give you sufficient Kirchhoff current law equations? I'll probably try it tomorrow since I'm a bit tired now...

Let's see if someone has a nicer method :wink:
 
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etotheipi said:
I haven't worked it through, so full disclaimer this might not work, but have you tried labelling the currents AB, AC, AD with ##i_1, i_2, i_3## respectively, and also B'A', C'A', D'A' with ##i_1, i_2, i_3## respectively (due to the symmetry you mention), and then labelling the potential of each node in terms of ##V## and ##i_1, i_2, i_3## (where ##V = 18V##)? You should be able to then work out some more currents; that might give you sufficient Kirchhoff current law equations? I'll probably try it tomorrow since I'm a bit tired now...

Let's see if someone has a nicer method :wink:
I have tried but calculations are very long
 
sktg said:
I have tried but calculations are very long

I think if you follow through the calculations I mentioned you should be able to get at least 3 simultaneous equations from applying Kirchhoff's current law at at least 3 junctions without too much difficulty. It's tedious, perhaps, but such is life sometimes :frown:.
 
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