How will the voltage, current and resistance be distributed

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding the distribution of voltage, current, and resistance in a compound circuit. Participants are exploring how to calculate total resistance using both series and parallel configurations, as well as addressing specific circuit components and their relationships.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about whether a specific resistor (R1) is part of a parallel or series configuration and seeks guidance on calculating total resistance.
  • Another participant suggests a step-by-step approach to identify pairs of resistors that are definitely in parallel or series, recommending the use of equivalent resistors.
  • A hypothetical example is provided where all resistors are 4 ohms, leading to a calculation of total resistance based on the assumed configuration.
  • Some participants challenge the identification of resistors as being in parallel, noting that certain pairs do not meet the criteria for parallel connections.
  • A later reply indicates that the issue was resolved during a lab session, thanking others for their insights.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the configuration of certain resistors, with some expressing confusion about their connections. The discussion includes both agreement on the need for clarification and disagreement on specific resistor arrangements.

Contextual Notes

Participants rely on specific definitions of series and parallel connections, which may not be universally agreed upon. The discussion reflects a process of trial and error in identifying resistor configurations.

Who May Find This Useful

Students working on circuit analysis, educators teaching electrical concepts, and individuals interested in practical applications of resistance calculations may find this discussion relevant.

Buggsy GC
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I have a lab to work through tomorrow morning and i need to be able to explain how the voltage, current and resistance in the compound circuit diagram below is distributed, and write an equation which can be used to measure the total resistance of the circuit. I know that when you normally try and calculate the compound resistance of a circuit you go Rtotal = Rseries + 1/Rparallel, but I don't know if Resistor bulb (R1) is parallel as well as series, and if it is, how do I calculate that.
 

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Buggsy GC said:
I have a lab to work through tomorrow morning and i need to be able to explain how the voltage, current and resistance in the compound circuit diagram below is distributed, and write an equation which can be used to measure the total resistance of the circuit. I know that when you normally try and calculate the compound resistance of a circuit you go Rtotal = Rseries + 1/Rparallel, but I don't know if Resistor bulb (R1) is parallel as well as series, and if it is, how do I calculate that.
Take it in steps.
Can you find two resistors that are definitely parallel with no complications (i.e. each joins to the other at each end)? If so, replace that pair with a single equivalent resistor using the usual parallel resistor rule.
If not, can you find two that are in series with no complications (i.e. one end of one joins to one end of the other, with nothing else joining at that point)? If so, replace the pair with single equivalent resistor.
Continue that process until only one resistor left.
 
So for example if all the resistors are 4 ohms, then R1 and R3 will be 2 ohms total and then I just add 4 ohms last as the total for the series ohms e.g. 6V Rtotal= Rs+1/Rp. 4+1/1/2 = total resistance of the circuit.
 
Buggsy GC said:
then R1 and R3 will be 2 ohms total
No, those two resistors do not satisfy the conditions I gave for two in parallel with no complications. They are joined directly at one end but not at the other.
Try some other pair.
 
haruspex said:
No, those two resistors do not satisfy the conditions I gave for two in parallel with no complications. They are joined directly at one end but not at the other.
Try some other pair.
we sorted it out in the lab, thank you very much for your insight
 

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