Is the Current Calculation in the Circuit Incorrect?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a circuit analysis problem involving current calculation, specifically questioning the relationship between source voltage, equivalent resistance, and load current in a circuit with resistors in series.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are examining the formula for current in the circuit, debating the inclusion of specific resistors in the equivalent resistance calculation. There are questions about the consistency of current through resistors in series and the implications for voltage measurements.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants presenting differing views on the correctness of the book's explanation. Some participants assert the book's answer is accurate, while others challenge the reasoning behind the current calculations and the treatment of resistors.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of specific resistor values and the source voltage, but the discussion does not clarify all assumptions or the complete circuit setup, leaving some aspects open for interpretation.

Miike012
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I think the book is wrong.

Why is the current (which they denote IL) equal to Vs/(Req)

Where Vs = 458.3kV and Req is the equivalent resistance of the circuit equal to the sum of the two resistors in series ( Req = 220 + 20 = 240).

In there equation they left out the the resistor of 20 ohmes
 

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No, the book answer is correct. They are finding the current in Rload by knowing Iload = Vload/Rload.
Now that you know the current, you can find the voltage drop across the 20 okm line resistance. Then you can find the source voltage.
 
barryj said:
No, the book answer is correct. They are finding the current in Rload by knowing Iload = Vload/Rload.
Now that you know the current, you can find the voltage drop across the 20 okm line resistance. Then you can find the source voltage.

Why is the current different through each resistor?
 
Miike012 said:
Why is the current different through each resistor?

It's not. That's what barryj is saying. They are the same. But the voltage drop is only measured against the load resistance. You can use that to find the source voltage.
 

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