Instantaneous currents in RLC Circuit

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves analyzing an RLC circuit with a given voltage, resistance, capacitance, and inductance. The original poster is trying to determine the time at which the currents through the inductor and capacitor are equal after a switch is closed.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster expresses uncertainty about how to derive functions for the currents through the inductor and capacitor to find the time at which they are equal. Some participants suggest revisiting fundamental relationships in the circuit, while others propose using Kirchhoff's rules to set up equations.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different methods to approach the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the application of Kirchhoff's rules and the need to clarify the relationship between charge and current in the context of the circuit.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of confusion regarding the applicability of certain equations and the definitions of current and charge in the circuit. The original poster is working under the constraints of a homework assignment and is seeking clarification on these concepts.

BrettJimison
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Homework Statement



I am completely stumped on this problem:

In this circuit:
2e5m6ap.png


v= 30.0
R = 400 ohms
C = 2.50 micro coulombs
L = .300 H

The switch (pretend you see one) is close at t=0

Current i1 flows through L and current i2 flows through C

QUESTION: At what time (t) does i1=i2 ?

Homework Equations



i(t) = I cos (omega t)

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
I'm not sure where to even start...I don't know how to find two different functions (of time t) for i1 and i2 to set equal to each other to solve for t.

Can anyone suggest what these functions may be?

Thanks in advance!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
##i(t) = I \cos (\omega t)## isn't applicable here: you are not driving this circuit with an alternate current but with a battery.
So back to the textbook for relationships between I, V, and their time derivatives, and C, L
 
well...the only thing I can think of is using Kirchoffs rules.

I used the loop rule and got:

R( i1+i2) + L(di/dt) = EMF

R(i1+i2) + q/c = EMF

...not sure how these can help me find a function for i(t)...
 
q is the charged on the capacitor. What is i? How is the current flowing through the capacitor related to this q?
 

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