How do Kirchhoff's Rules apply to a circuit with multiple resistors in series?

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the application of Kirchhoff's Rules to a circuit with multiple resistors in series, specifically using measured values of voltage and resistance. The circuit includes resistors R1, R2, R3, R4, and R5 with values of 100Ω, 100Ω, 50Ω, 50Ω, and 50Ω respectively, and a voltage source of 1.5V. Participants clarify the Loop Rule, which states that the sum of potential differences around a closed loop must equal zero, and the Junction Rule, which relates currents at junctions. The relationship between currents I1, I2, I3, I5, and Io is explored, emphasizing the need for a clear understanding of current flow in series circuits.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Kirchhoff's Loop Rule and Junction Rule
  • Basic knowledge of electrical circuits and current flow
  • Familiarity with series resistor configurations
  • Ability to apply Ohm's Law in circuit analysis
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Kirchhoff's Rules in complex circuits
  • Learn how to calculate total resistance in series circuits
  • Explore the implications of current direction and charge accumulation in resistors
  • Practice solving circuit problems using Kirchhoff's Laws with different configurations
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Students studying electrical engineering, physics enthusiasts, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of circuit analysis using Kirchhoff's Rules.

Sylvia
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Homework Statement


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Consider the circuit above. You are given the following measured values:
V = 1.5 V
R1 = 100
omegacap.gif

R2 = 100
omegacap.gif

R3 = 50
omegacap.gif

R4 = 50
omegacap.gif

R5 = 50
omegacap.gif


Homework Equations


Kirchhoff's Loop Rule and Junction Rule

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried setting this up using the junction and loop rule.
At the first junction (between R1 and R3), I have I1 = I2 + I3. At the second junction, after R5, I have I5 + I2 = Io (Io is the current entering the battery again).
I do not understand what the loop rule should be written as and then how to put it all together. Please help!
 
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Your I5 and I3, and also Io and I1 are related - how?

What does the Loop Rule state?
 
The loop rule states that the sum of the potential differences around the circuit is 0. Is I3 = -I5? And also I1 = -Io?
 
Sylvia said:
The loop rule states that the sum of the potential differences around the circuit is 0. Is I3 = -I5? And also I1 = -Io?
The loop rule states that the sum of potential differences is zero around a loop.

I3 = - I5 would mean that the current flows into R4 from both sides and the charges accumulate there. Is it possible? The current flows through a resistor, enters at one terminal and leaves at the other. What do you know about the current flowing through resistors connected in series?
 

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