How Do You Solve a Source-Free Current Response Problem Using KVL?

  • Thread starter Thread starter k_squared
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Current Response
AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on solving a source-free current response problem using Kirchhoff's Voltage Law (KVL). The initial current is determined to be 2 amps, leading to the differential equation derived from KVL. There is confusion regarding the signs of the components in the equation, particularly between voltage sources and their contributions to the current response. One participant points out potential errors in the formulation of the differential equation, suggesting that the variables may have been misidentified. The conversation highlights the importance of correctly applying KVL and understanding component behavior in circuit analysis.
k_squared
Messages
62
Reaction score
0
1. Homework Statement
For the following circuit, use KVL to write a differential equation in terms of current i and solve for the source-free current response if v(0+) = 40 V.

onM6H2O.jpg


Homework Equations



$$(s-s_1)Ae^{st}=0$$
$$i=C(d/dt)v$$
$$v=Ae^{s_1*t}$$

$$i=(-1/R)V_0e^{\frac{-t/}{RC}}$$

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
Finding the initial current is not so difficult. We have: $$-40 +22i-2i=0$$, for an initial current of 2 amps.

I came up with: $$(4)i-22(d/dt)i+2(d/dt)i=0$$, thus with 4/24, we have $$s+1/6=0$$.

However the answer is $$2e^{-\frac{1}{5}t}$$, meaning that s_1= 1\5, not 1\6!

I assume the two and the four have to be the same sign, because they are both voltage sources that are lined up with each other such that their voltage becomes greater rather than lesser. However, this means that s_1 becomes positive, or the sources of voltage in this circuit (ie, the capacitor and the dependent voltage source) have different signs!

Alas, s_1 is negative as expected. Therefore, I must be missing something.

What am I doing wrong?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Wait... is it because any component with $$d/dt$$ is going to be negative in a stable circuit?
 
k_squared said:
1. Homework Statement

I came up with: $$(4)i-22(d/dt)i+2(d/dt)i=0$$, thus with 4/24, we have $$s+1/6=0$$.
Not sure I understood everything you wrote, but your equation here has the wrong polarities.
I also don't follow how you solved your diff. eq.
 
k_squared said:
I came up with:
(4)i-22(d/dt)i+2(d/dt)i=0
I think this simplifies to
(4)i - 20(d/dt)i = 0
so there's your 5.

But haven't you inadvertently swapped i where you should have v here?
 
Back
Top