Possible Short Title: Possible Mistakes in Textbook Circuit Problems?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a homework problem related to mesh analysis in electrical circuits, specifically focusing on the formulation of supermesh equations and the calculation of current through an inductive element. Participants are examining potential mistakes in their equations and comparing their results with those provided in a textbook.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • The original poster presents their supermesh equations and questions their accuracy, noting a significant discrepancy between their calculated current and the textbook's answer.
  • One participant asserts that the original supermesh equation is incorrectly written, suggesting that voltage drops should be treated differently and providing a corrected version of the equation.
  • Another participant seeks clarification on the treatment of direction in supermesh analysis, questioning whether voltage drops should be added or subtracted based on the reference mesh current.
  • A participant confirms that in mesh analysis, one must traverse the loop in a consistent direction and that supermesh analysis follows the same principles as mesh analysis.
  • The original poster expresses satisfaction with the explanation provided, indicating a better understanding of the concepts discussed.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is disagreement regarding the correct formulation of the supermesh equation and the treatment of voltage drops. Some participants support the corrections made, while others question the assumptions underlying those corrections. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the accuracy of the original equations.

Contextual Notes

Participants' understanding of voltage drop conventions and the application of Kirchhoff's Voltage Law in supermesh analysis may vary, leading to differing interpretations of the equations presented.

Number2Pencil
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Homework Statement


The problem is attached. The question asks: "find the current through the inductive element". I'm starting to wonder how many mistakes are in this textbook. But it might be a mistake I made. Could someone check my Mesh Equations?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



SuperMesh 1 & 2: 10V<0 + 1kohm(I1 + 6mA <0) + 4kohm (I2) + j6kohm (I2) = 0

SuperMesh Supplemental: I1 + I2 = 0.1 Vs

Direct Source Supplemental: Vs = (I1 + 6mA <0) * 1kohm

if anyone wants to take a stab at the final answer, I got 7.74mA <171.5, and the book got 1.378mA <-56.31. Way different than what I'm getting
 

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Your supermesh equation is wrongly written.

Assuming that voltage gains are positive values, then in:
10V<0 + 1kohm(I1 + 6mA <0) + 4kohm (I2) + j6kohm (I2) = 0
the part "+ 4kohm (I2) + j6kohm (I2)" is incorrect as clearly there is a voltage drop (according to the direction of I2) across the 4k resistor and 6k inductor.

The correct supermesh equation should be:
10V<0 + 1kohm(I1 + 6mA <0) - 4kohm (I2) - j6kohm (I2) = 0
which should give you the desired answer.
 
So in a supermesh, you treat it as going in one direction the entire way around? I was assuming you treated it as each direction showed

I was taught you add the voltage if there is a voltage drop (voltage drop in relation to the direction your reference mesh current), not subtract as you're showing. And if I'm wrong as you say, wouldn't the other part of the equation (involving the 1k resistor) be incorrect as well? I guess that would really depend on my first question as well
 
Last edited:
Number2Pencil said:
So in a supermesh, you treat it as going in one direction the entire way around?

Yes, because in mesh analysis you are actually applying the Kirchoff Voltage Law which equates all voltage drops (or equivalently voltage gains) around the loop to zero. And yes, you can only traverse the loop in either the clockwise or anticlockwise direction, not both. Supermesh is no different from mesh analysis except that you have now to consider more than one mesh current.
 
thanks, I completely understand
 

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