Nodal Analysis: Solving Homework Problem

In summary, the student attempted to solve an assignment question using a supernode, but missed two resistors. They found a solution using node equations and solved for V1.
  • #1
Ronaldo95163
77
1

Homework Statement


*Posted in the Screenshot*

Homework Equations


*Posted in the uploaded attachment*

The Attempt at a Solution


*Posted in the uploaded attachment*Hi all.
Our lecturer gave us the question as part of an assignment but I'm not to sure if my approach and answer is correct. I attempted it using a supernode as shown in the picture below:
 

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  • #2
Note that the supernode you've identified is not an essential node -- it's potential is "fixed" by the controlled voltage source tied to the reference node. So you shouldn't write a node equation for it. In fact, there's only one essential node in the whole circuit!
Node v1 is the only essential node.
Fig1.png

In your workings you combined the parallel resistors 5||3 at v1. You could also combine the other two 5 and 3 Ohm resistors. Since they are series-connected in a branch, their junction is not an essential node.

Write the node equation for node v1, the only essential node.
 
  • #3
Woa..can't believe I missed those two resistors lol.
Here's my solution.

I used the supernode equations to form relationships with the other node voltages.
 

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  • #4
I have another question I got kinda stuck on in the same assignment as well:
*Pics Below*
My first time doing a problem like this so this was my attempt at it.
 

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  • #5
Ronaldo95163 said:
Woa..can't believe I missed those two resistors lol.
Here's my solution.

I used the supernode equations to form relationships with the other node voltages.

No, once again you're trying to write a node equation for the supernode which isn't an essential node. Do NOT write a node equation for a node tied to the reference node by a voltage source. Such a node is only an extension of the reference node, and we do not write an equation for the reference node.

Write only a node equation for the node v1 that I pointed out (post #2). It's the only essential node in the circuit.
 
  • #6
Ronaldo95163 said:
I have another question I got kinda stuck on in the same assignment as well:
*Pics Below*
My first time doing a problem like this so this was my attempt at it.
You should start a new thread with a new problem. It avoids "crosstalk" that can occur in a thread when more than one problem is being addressed at the same time.
 
  • #7
Oh no probs ill make a new thread for that problem
Wrt the first problem here's what I came up with

Edit
For the second eqn it should be 5Ix-5-V1+5Ix-V1=5

Which simplifies to 10=10Ix-2V1
 

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Last edited:
  • #8
You shouldn't need KVL for this problem. One node equation and the constraint equations imposed by Ix and the controlled source and fixed sources should suffice.
 
  • #9
What I can see from the diagram that the pd across the 20ohm resistor is the same as V1 so 20Ix = V1

So a substitution can be made into the node equation tol solve for either V1 or Ix.

Wrt the kvl approach i took...is it incorrect??
If so then why?
 
  • #10
Ronaldo95163 said:
What I can see from the diagram that the pd across the 20ohm resistor is the same as V1 so 20Ix = V1

So a substitution can be made into the node equation tol solve for either V1 or Ix.
Yup. And since this is nodal analysis you'll want to solve for V1.
Wrt the kvl approach i took...is it incorrect??
If so then why?
If you want to solve with nodal analysis, then you don't do mesh or loop KVL equations. There's no reason to do so.
 
  • #11
Woa thanks a bunch man!
Gonna go check over that second problem now
 
  • #12
Worked it over and this is my final soln:
 

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  • #13
Check your math on the last two lines of calculating Ix. The setup looks good to me, but your final value for Ix looks much too large.
 
  • #14
Woops divided it wrong on my calculator haha thanks man
 

1. What is nodal analysis?

Nodal analysis is a method used to solve circuit problems. It involves creating equations at each node in a circuit and then solving them to determine the voltage at each node.

2. How do you solve a homework problem using nodal analysis?

To solve a homework problem using nodal analysis, follow these steps:

  1. Identify all the nodes in the circuit.
  2. Select a reference node and label its voltage as 0.
  3. Write equations for each node using Kirchhoff's Current Law (KCL).
  4. Simplify the equations using Ohm's Law and any other relevant laws or equations.
  5. Solve the resulting system of equations to determine the voltage at each node.

3. What are some common mistakes when solving nodal analysis problems?

Some common mistakes when solving nodal analysis problems include:

  • Not properly labeling the nodes in the circuit.
  • Forgetting to include a voltage source in the equations.
  • Incorrectly applying Ohm's Law or other laws or equations.
  • Not properly simplifying the equations before solving them.
  • Overlooking or forgetting to include any necessary components in the circuit.

4. Can nodal analysis be used for circuits with dependent sources?

Yes, nodal analysis can be used for circuits with dependent sources. However, the equations will be more complex as the dependent sources will need to be expressed in terms of the nodal voltages.

5. Are there any limitations to using nodal analysis?

Yes, there are some limitations to using nodal analysis. It is most effective for circuits with a large number of nodes and can become more complex for circuits with multiple voltage sources or dependent sources. Additionally, nodal analysis assumes linear components and may not accurately model non-linear components.

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