Multiloop circuit: find equivalent resistance

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the equivalent resistance in a multiloop circuit, with participants analyzing the configuration of resistors and their relationships. The subject area includes circuit analysis and electrical engineering concepts.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the configuration of resistors, with one suggesting that all resistors may be in parallel, while others question this assumption. There are discussions about the implications of current direction and the application of Kirchhoff's Voltage Law. A suggestion for using delta-star configuration conversion is also mentioned.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing guidance on circuit analysis techniques and questioning assumptions about the resistor configuration. There is no explicit consensus, but some productive direction is noted in the form of suggestions for analyzing the circuit.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working with a visual representation of the circuit, which is not provided in the text. There are references to specific resistors and their connections, indicating that the understanding of the circuit layout is crucial for the discussion.

sonic91
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Homework Statement


Find equivalent resistance in this circuit. (picture is in the attached files section)

Homework Equations


Series: Req=R1+ R2. . .

Parallel: 1/Req = 1/R1 + 1/R2 . . .

The Attempt at a Solution


It seems to me that the 2nd 2ohm resistor (the one that's pointed vertically) has 2 different currents going through it in opposite directions. I also think that the 2nd 2ohm resistor is in parallel with both the 3ohm and 4ohm resisistors. The first 2ohm resistor also seems to be parallel with the other three resistors. So if I redrew the circuit I would say that all 4 resistors ultimately all have a parallel relationship to each other, but I'm really not sure?
 

Attachments

Physics news on Phys.org
Use delta-star configuration conversion.
 
Hi sonic91! welcome to PF! :smile:

I don't think they are all in parallel. Also, the 2nd 2 ohm resistor cannot have two opposite currents passing through it. Nothing can...

Try assuming the current in the circuit to be I, and voltage of the battery V(make an imaginary battery circuit). See how the electric current is distributed among the loops and make sure if I current is entering the system, I current should finally go out. :wink:

Then use Kirchoff's Voltage Law for appropriate loops.

Or, use delta-star transformation.
 
sonic91 said:
So if I redrew the circuit I would say that all 4 resistors ultimately all have a parallel relationship to each other, but I'm really not sure?

No, they are not. Remember, both terminals of parallel resistors are common with the other one. You have a pair of resistors which both terminals common. Which ones?
Note, those terminals which are connected by a wire are considered "common".
Look at the picture. You can shrink the wire on the left and turn the first 2 ohm resistor downward.

ehild
 

Attachments

  • equivres.JPG
    equivres.JPG
    10.7 KB · Views: 518
Thanks for the help I think I've got it down now.
 

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