How does the current divide in parallel inductors?

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the behavior of current in parallel inductors, particularly focusing on the application of the current divider rule versus the use of the inductor voltage relationship during transient conditions.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the differences between using the current divider rule and the equation $$V_O = L*\frac{di}{dt}$$ in transient analysis. Questions arise regarding the assumptions of steady state versus transient conditions and how initial conditions affect the current distribution.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into the limitations of the current divider rule in transient scenarios, noting that it does not account for initial conditions. There is an ongoing exploration of the implications of these differences, with some participants expressing gratitude for the clarification of concepts.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the initial current values at t=0 and the inconsistency with the expected current ratios, highlighting the need for careful consideration of transient behavior in inductive circuits.

jangchen
Messages
12
Reaction score
3
Homework Statement
In the circuit of Fig. 63.82 io(0)=2mA. Determine io(t) and Vo(t) for t>0
Relevant Equations
$$V_O = L*\frac{di}{dt}$$
6.60.png
I apologize using English fluently because I am not an Enlgish speaker.

When I tried to solve this problem, I used current divider rule.

So, $$i_o(t) = \frac{3}{3+5}*4e^{-2t} = 1.5*e^{-2t} A$$

However, This was wrong.

The answer is $$ 1.5*e^{-2t} + 0.5 A$$

If I use $$V_O = L*\frac{di}{dt}$$ , I can get right answer.

I wonder why there is a difference
between using current divider rule and using $$V_O = L*\frac{di}{dt}$$.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: Delta2
Physics news on Phys.org
The current divider rule assumes a steady state solution. This is a transient problem. The current divider rule doesn't properly account for the initial conditions. At t=0 each inductor has 2A, which isn't consistent with the 3:5 ratio.
 
jangchen said:
The answer is $$ 1.5*e^{-2t} + 0.5 A$$

If I use $$V_O = L*\frac{di}{dt}$$ , I can get right answer.

I wonder why there is a difference
between using current divider rule and using $$V_O = L*\frac{di}{dt}$$.
The voltage divider rule is valid for resistors, when the voltage is proportional to the current, U=RI. In case of inductors, this is not true, U=LdI/dt instead.
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: jangchen and Delta2
DaveE said:
The current divider rule assumes a steady state solution. This is a transient problem. The current divider rule doesn't properly account for the initial conditions. At t=0 each inductor has 2A, which isn't consistent with the 3:5 ratio.
Thank you for your advise! I got what is a steady state right away.
 
ehild said:
The voltage divider rule is valid for resistors, when the voltage is proportional to the current, U=RI. In case of inductors, this is not true, U=LdI/dt instead.
Oh, I thought current divider was also applied to the inductor. Thank you for your help!
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
1K
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
1K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
4K
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
3K
Replies
34
Views
7K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K