How to Calculate Current Using Superposition Theorem and Impedance with Phases

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the current through a 1Ω resistor using the superposition theorem and considering the effects of voltage phases in an AC circuit. Participants explore different methods and approaches to handle the impedance and phase angles in their calculations.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation
  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses difficulty in calculating the current through the 1Ω resistor due to the phased voltage sources and seeks guidance on handling these phases.
  • Another participant suggests converting phasor quantities into complex form to manage the phases effectively.
  • A different approach is proposed, recommending the use of Norton equivalents to simplify the circuit analysis.
  • One participant outlines their impedance values and expresses confusion about the calculations related to the voltage divider and the impact of phase angles on the impedance.
  • There is a request for clarification regarding the subtraction of impedance angles when calculating from the upper voltage source.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the best approach to take, with multiple competing methods and perspectives presented. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the correct handling of phases and impedance in the calculations.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the correct application of the superposition theorem and the treatment of voltage phases. There are indications of missing assumptions or definitions that could clarify the calculations.

Rurik1
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Homework Statement



I need help with determining the current through the 1Ω resistor.

http://img403.imageshack.us/img403/5422/acex22.jpg

The trouble I have is that the voltage sources are phased as given in picture, and I got stuck on how to deal with these phases when calculating the current with impendance.

I know I need to count the impendance, but I get the wrong answer when I count the current from every source (superposition theorem).

Homework Equations



If I look at it through the superposition theorem and current divider rule, I should get the correct answer with regards to current through the 1 Ω resistor.

I am absolutely certain that I don't do the voltage right, i.e. 5 Δ 30 and 5 Δ -30 . Is this correct thinking?

The Attempt at a Solution



Back to superposition theorem, I can count the total impendance for every voltage source. Then I divide the voltage, example

(5 Δ 30) / Z Δ ω = I

From there I go to the current divider rule and count the current through the resistor per source. This is repeated with the upper source as:

(5 Δ -30) / Z Δ ω = I

------------------


I've handled these problems well without the voltage phases, but I don't think I handle the voltage phases rather well here. I would really appreciate any pointers on how to proceed!
 
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Hi Rurik1, welcome to PF.

You can put all the phasor quantities in complex form. The complex math takes care of the phases.

As a suggestion, why don't you convert the voltage sources and their networks up to the 1 Ohm resistor into their Norton equivalents? Those can then be combined into a single Norton source in parallel with that resistor.
 
gneill

Thanks for your quick reply! Norton is another solution, however I want to see where I am blinding myself here.

OK, superposition, starting from below:

Z1(3Ohms) = 3Δ0o

Z2(5Ohms) = 5Δ0o

Z3(1Ohms) = 1Δ0o

Z4(L) = 2∏*50*0.05Δ90o

From the source below, the current through 1 Ohm should be as per this picture:

And so on... It amazes me that I can't see it... ?!

EDIT: this means, that the next count from the upper source will be 5Δ-30o, so the impendance angle will be subtracted - is this correct?
 

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Last edited:
Your picture looks like an exercise in continued fractions :smile: My approach would be to work symbolically until the last stage, defining useful intermediate values as required. So, taking your definitions for Z1 through Z4, I'd define Z5 = Z3||Z4 for example. Then to find the current through Z3 due to V2 (the bottom source), after suppressing V1 I'd note the voltage divider consisting of Z2 and Z5. Thus:
[tex]I_2 = V_2 \left(\frac{Z_5}{Z_2 + Z_5}\right) \frac{1}{Z_3}[/tex]
After that the numbers can be plugged in and the result obtained.
 
Rurik1 said:
EDIT: this means, that the next count from the upper source will be 5Δ-30o, so the impendance angle will be subtracted - is this correct?

I'm not clear on what you're asking here.
 

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