Please help me solve loop analysis problem

In summary, the conversation involves a student attempting to solve a circuit problem using loop analysis. The student assigns currents to each loop and uses KVL to solve for the unknowns. However, after receiving help and correcting a mistake, the student is able to successfully solve the problem and get the correct answer. The conversation also includes a discussion on the assumed direction of a current and how it affects the voltage drop across a resistor.
  • #1
ee_ess_ee-kid
15
0

Homework Statement



http://i.imgur.com/pVIMw.png"

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



I called the top left loop i1, the top right loop i2, the bottom right loop i3, and the bottom left loop i4. I have all of these currents going clockwise in my work. An attempt to do loop analysis has left me with the following equations:

i4=(2Vx)/(1K)
i1-i2=2mA
i3=-4mA
-i2(4kΩ)=Vx

With this, I used KVL along the top loop going clcokwise, which got me:

-2(i1-i4) - 4i1 - 4i2 - 1i2 - 8(i2-i3) = 0
Solving this got me:
i2=(-25/44)mA

Then, V0=(8kΩ)(-25/44 mA)=-1.76V

Can someone please help me figure it out? When I go and try to check it, my work gets pretty weird...Pretty sure this is wrong. Can someone please help me find my mistake?
 
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  • #2
Verify the polarity of Vx.
 
  • #3
I was confused by that.

Should it be i2(4κΩ)=Vx?

Redoing my work gets me V0=11V, which looks better. I'll check to see if that answer makes more sense
 
Last edited:
  • #4
Current through a resistor causes a voltage drop (+ to -) in the direction that the current flows. What's the assumed direction of i2?
 
  • #5
gneill said:
Current through a resistor causes a voltage drop (+ to -) in the direction that the current flows. What's the assumed direction of i2?

I have all the currents going clockwise.

I have i2 going from left to right on that resistor.
 
  • #6
ee_ess_ee-kid said:
I have all the currents going clockwise.

I have i2 going from left to right on that resistor.

So then...
 
  • #7
gneill said:
So then...

So then it should be Vx=i2(4κΩ)
 
  • #8
ee_ess_ee-kid said:
So then it should be Vx=i2(4κΩ)

Correct.
 
  • #9
If I use that, I get the following:

i1=13mA
i2=11mA
i3=-4mA
i4=88mA

Using these values, I fail to get a correct check using KVL on the top loop. I can't get ƩV=0...
 
  • #10
ee_ess_ee-kid said:
If I use that, I get the following:

i1=13mA
i2=11mA
i3=-4mA
i4=88mA

Using these values, I fail to get a correct check using KVL on the top loop. I can't get ƩV=0...

I get a different value for i2 (I didn't check the other currents) when I solve your equations. You'll have to post your work in detail if we're to see what's happened.
 
  • #11
gneill said:
I get a different value for i2 (I didn't check the other currents) when I solve your equations. You'll have to post your work in detail if we're to see what's happened.

Actually, I found it myself. Turns out I did the following:

i1-i2=2mA → i1=2-i2

Which is wrong :p

Fixing this error, I got a value of i2=-14.6667=-44/3, if i2 were going clockwise.
 
  • #12
Thanks for all of your help, I really appreciate it!
 

What is loop analysis?

Loop analysis is a problem-solving method used in circuit analysis to determine the voltage and current values at different points in a circuit. It involves creating a loop equation by applying Kirchhoff's voltage law and solving for the unknown variables using algebraic techniques.

Why is loop analysis important?

Loop analysis is important because it allows scientists to analyze complex circuits and determine the behavior of electrical components. It is a fundamental tool in understanding how electricity flows through a circuit and is essential in the design and troubleshooting of electronic systems.

What are the steps involved in loop analysis?

The steps involved in loop analysis are:

  1. Identify the loops in the circuit
  2. Apply Kirchhoff's voltage law to each loop to create equations
  3. Solve the equations simultaneously to obtain the unknown variables
  4. Check the solutions for consistency

What are the common mistakes in loop analysis?

Some common mistakes in loop analysis include:

  • Forgetting to include all the loops in the circuit
  • Incorrectly applying Kirchhoff's voltage law
  • Using incorrect signs for the voltage values
  • Making algebraic errors while solving the equations

How can I improve my loop analysis skills?

To improve your loop analysis skills, you can:

  • Practice solving different types of circuits
  • Make sure to understand the basic principles of Kirchhoff's laws
  • Double-check your equations and solutions for accuracy
  • Seek help from a more experienced scientist or tutor

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