Applying KVL: Understanding the Process and Confusions

In summary, according to the website, the first method results in the same results as the second method, but the website gives the different result.
  • #1
sciman
24
1
hello

what is the process to apply KVL exactly?

we know nothing in a loop, apart from that it consists of 2 batteries with known polarity and 2 resistors.

what do we do?

we assign arbitrarily the currents to each of the branches that compose the loop? and then we assign polarities to the resistors?

or we assign arbitrarily polarities to the resistors in the loop and apply kvl based on that and if we find negative values, we just invert the polarity?

I am a bit confused

To give you an example:
upload_2015-4-15_14-28-19.png


1) according to the first method (we take resistor polarities based on the arbitrarily taken currents)
in left loop, we have V1-Vr3-Vr1=0
in right loop, we have V2-Vr2+Vr3=0
2) according to the second method (we assign polarities of resistors arbitrarily)
in left loop, we have V1-Vr3-Vr1=0
in right loop, we have V2-Vr2+Vr3=0

which are the same, but the website of this example gives:
0cbb994040dab97570b92f9b9749960b.png

and
4321cdc46d8988dee94d4e54a0d32e97.png


WHICH IS DIFFERENT!thanks
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
sciman said:
but the website of this example gives:

Which website?
 
  • #4
sciman said:
hello

what is the process to apply KVL exactly?

we know nothing in a loop, apart from that it consists of 2 batteries with known polarity and 2 resistors.

what do we do?

we assign arbitrarily the currents to each of the branches that compose the loop? and then we assign polarities to the resistors?

or we assign arbitrarily polarities to the resistors in the loop and apply kvl based on that and if we find negative values, we just invert the polarity?

I am a bit confused

To give you an example:
View attachment 82039

1) according to the first method (we take resistor polarities based on the arbitrarily taken currents)
in left loop, we have V1-Vr3-Vr1=0
in right loop, we have V2-Vr2+Vr3=0
2) according to the second method (we assign polarities of resistors arbitrarily)
in left loop, we have V1-Vr3-Vr1=0
in right loop, we have V2-Vr2+Vr3=0

which are the same, but the website of this example gives:
0cbb994040dab97570b92f9b9749960b.png

and
4321cdc46d8988dee94d4e54a0d32e97.png


WHICH IS DIFFERENT!thanks
I think it's just a typo.

He later writes:
a94bdc8bc3c8f2088e7080f82db570a4.png


and
67ea64f45c29bdc54996286d5d07072b.png


which implies using opposite signs for VR3 .
 

1. What is KVL and how does it apply to circuits?

KVL stands for Kirchhoff's Voltage Law, which is a fundamental principle in circuit analysis. It states that the sum of all voltages around a closed loop in a circuit must equal zero. This law applies to all types of circuits, including series and parallel circuits, and is used to determine the voltage drops across different components in a circuit.

2. How do I apply KVL in circuit analysis?

To apply KVL, you must first identify a closed loop in the circuit. Then, you can begin at any point in the loop and start moving in a direction, noting the voltage polarities as you go. As you encounter different components, you can use Ohm's Law and the voltage drop equation (V=IR) to calculate the voltage drops across each component. Finally, you can add all the voltage drops in the loop and they should equal zero, as per KVL.

3. What are some common mistakes or confusions when applying KVL?

One common mistake is forgetting to take into account the direction of the voltage drop. It is important to be consistent with the direction you choose when moving through the loop. Another confusion is not including all voltage sources in the loop, which can result in an incorrect calculation. It is also important to note that KVL applies to closed loops, so it cannot be used to analyze open circuits.

4. Can KVL be used for circuits with multiple loops?

Yes, KVL can be applied to circuits with multiple loops. In this case, you would need to set up multiple equations, one for each loop, and then solve them simultaneously to find the unknown voltages. It is important to label each loop and be consistent with the direction of movement in each loop.

5. How does KVL relate to other circuit laws, such as KCL and Ohm's Law?

KVL, KCL (Kirchhoff's Current Law), and Ohm's Law are all fundamental principles in circuit analysis. KVL and KCL are used to determine voltage and current values in a circuit, respectively, while Ohm's Law relates voltage, current, and resistance. These laws are often used together in circuit analysis to solve for unknown values and ensure the overall integrity of the circuit.

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