How Do You Solve a Circuit with a Voltage Dependent Current Source?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a circuit that includes a voltage dependent current source. Participants are exploring methods to analyze the circuit, particularly through Kirchhoff's Current Law (KCL) and considering other techniques like Kirchhoff's Voltage Law (KVL) or mesh analysis. The context is primarily homework-related, focusing on the application of circuit analysis principles.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express uncertainty about how to proceed with the analysis, specifically mentioning KCL and asking for guidance on additional methods.
  • One participant presents KCL equations at two nodes (Va and Vb) but is unsure about the correctness of their work and the sign conventions used.
  • Another participant suggests that KCL should be sufficient and points out that Va equals Vx and Vb equals VL, indicating potential simplifications in the analysis.
  • Concerns are raised about mixing sign conventions in the KCL equations, with a preference expressed for summing currents leaving a node.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the best approach to take, as there are differing opinions on whether to continue with KCL or to incorporate KVL or mesh analysis. Uncertainty remains regarding the correctness of the equations and sign conventions.

Contextual Notes

Participants note potential issues with sign conventions and the number of equations relative to variables, highlighting the complexity of the problem without resolving these concerns.

morrison.344
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Voltage dependent current source? Please help

Homework Statement


Attached the problem.


Homework Equations


??


The Attempt at a Solution


Tried to Use KCL, not sure what else to do.
 

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morrison.344 said:

Homework Statement


Attached the problem.


Homework Equations


??


The Attempt at a Solution


Tried to Use KCL, not sure what else to do.

Welcome to the PF. Show us your work so far. Show us your KCL equations.
 


I tried KCL at Va: (Vs-Va)/Rs+(Vb-Va)/100000+(Vx-Va)/2500=0
and KCL at Vb: (VL-VB)/1000-.05Vx+(Va-Vb)/100000=0,
So i have 2 equations and 4 variables assuming my work so far is correct, I am not positive on the sign conventions. Should I be using KVL, or Mesh analysis instead or in addition?
 


morrison.344 said:
I tried KCL at Va: (Vs-Va)/Rs+(Vb-Va)/100000+(Vx-Va)/2500=0
and KCL at Vb: (VL-VB)/1000-.05Vx+(Va-Vb)/100000=0,
So i have 2 equations and 4 variables assuming my work so far is correct, I am not positive on the sign conventions. Should I be using KVL, or Mesh analysis instead or in addition?

KCL should work fine. Look at the circuit again, and see that Va = Vx, and Vb = VL.

Also, be careful with your sign conventions -- either sum the currents leaving a node or going into it. I believe you were mixing signs in the first line (but the fact that Va = Vx kind of muddies that sign error anyway). I personally prefer to sum the currents leaving each node, but that's just me.
 

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