How to Solve a First Order Transient Circuit Using Differential Equations?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a first-order transient circuit using differential equations, specifically addressing the voltage across a capacitor at time t_{0^-}, which is determined to be 8V. The user expresses confusion about whether to calculate the current at t_{0^-} and seeks clarification on analyzing the circuit for t_{0^+}. The conversation suggests using Kirchhoff's laws to derive equations and proposes employing Laplace transformations to find the transfer function for the capacitor and output, ultimately leading to the final solution through inverse Laplace transformation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of first-order transient circuits
  • Familiarity with differential equations
  • Knowledge of Kirchhoff's voltage and current laws
  • Experience with Laplace transformations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Laplace transformations in circuit analysis
  • Learn how to derive transfer functions for electrical components
  • Practice solving first-order differential equations in circuit contexts
  • Explore advanced techniques for solving systems of equations in circuit analysis
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Electrical engineering students, circuit designers, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of transient circuit analysis using differential equations.

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I'm having serious trouble understanding how to solve this problem using the differential equation method ( I MUST use this method). I provided the answer but my solution attempts are not producing the same result.

Here is the problem. http://img102.imageshack.us/img102/4176/testproblembe8.th.jpg

The first thing I need to do is find the voltage across the capacitor at time [tex]t_{0^-}[/tex]. By combining the 4k and 6k resistors and using voltage division I see that the voltage across the capacitor for [tex]t_(0^-)= 8V[/tex]

Now I'm confused here, should I also find the current in the circuit for [tex]t_(0^-)[/tex]?


Let me assume that I don't need this parameter and then I go on the analyze this circuit for [tex]t_(0^+)[/tex]

For this circuit all we have is one loop consisting of the capacitor and the 4k and 6k resistors.
Now I can write and equation for the current around this loop:
[tex]C\frac{dV_c(t)}{dt} + 6ki(t)=0[/tex]
 
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Have you tried using a combination of Kirchoff's voltage and current laws? I tried it and got three equations and three unknowns. But its crazy to solve. I doubt its the right way, but maybe you can give it a shot?

How about Laplace transformations? Find the transfer function for capacitor and output, and then inverse laplace it for the final answer.
 

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