How does the current divide in parallel inductors?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the application of the current divider rule versus the voltage equation for inductors in transient analysis. The correct solution for the current through the inductor is $$1.5*e^{-2t} + 0.5 A$$, derived using the equation $$V_O = L*\frac{di}{dt}$$. The current divider rule fails in this scenario as it assumes steady-state conditions, which do not apply to transient problems involving inductors. Initial conditions at t=0, where each inductor carries 2A, further illustrate the inadequacy of the current divider rule in this context.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of transient analysis in electrical circuits
  • Familiarity with inductors and their behavior in circuits
  • Knowledge of the current divider rule and its limitations
  • Proficiency in using the equation $$V_O = L*\frac{di}{dt}$$
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the differences between steady-state and transient analysis in electrical circuits
  • Learn about the behavior of inductors in transient conditions
  • Explore advanced circuit analysis techniques for inductors
  • Review practical applications of the current divider rule in various circuit configurations
USEFUL FOR

Electrical engineers, students studying circuit theory, and anyone involved in analyzing transient responses in inductive circuits will benefit from this discussion.

jangchen
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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 $$V_O = L*\frac{di}{dt}$$.
 
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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.
 
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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!
 

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