Resistance in a combination circuit

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the resistance in a specific resistor (MN) within a combination circuit, which involves both series and parallel configurations. Participants are exploring the relationships between different resistors and how to analyze the circuit based on a provided diagram.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants express uncertainty about how to start the problem and seek hints for guidance. Questions arise regarding the uniformity of resistor values and the need for a clearer understanding of circuit analysis methods.

Discussion Status

Some participants have begun to clarify their understanding of the circuit layout and the relationships between resistors. Guidance has been offered regarding how to visualize the circuit and combine resistances, although not all participants have reached a resolution.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of differing resistor values and an experimental determination of resistance in MN, which may influence the analysis. Participants are also considering the implications of their circuit diagram accuracy on their calculations.

wahaj
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Homework Statement


Find the resistance in resistor MN. Diagram is attached


Homework Equations



in series circuit
R = R1+R2+R2+...Rn
in parallel circuit
[tex]\frac{1}{R} = \frac{1}{R_1}+\frac{1}{R_2}+\frac{1}{R_3}+... \frac{1}{R_n}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution


I have no idea on how to get started. I was able to find the resistance between points K and L but I can't seem to make sense of how to draw a diagram for this. I just need a hint to get me started
 

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wahaj said:

Homework Statement


Find the resistance in resistor MN. Diagram is attached

Homework Equations



in series circuit
R = R1+R2+R2+...Rn
in parallel circuit
[tex]\frac{1}{R} = \frac{1}{R_1}+\frac{1}{R_2}+\frac{1}{R_3}+... \frac{1}{R_n}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution


I have no idea on how to get started. I was able to find the resistance between points K and L but I can't seem to make sense of how to draw a diagram for this. I just need a hint to get me started
Do all the resistors have the same resistance?
 
no all the resistances are different. I actually just wanted a better understanding of how to solve this kind of problem rather than solve this specific problem. The resistance in MN is 211 and was determined experimentally. I have to do a series/parallel analysis on the circuit to find the resistance in MN and see if the 2 resistances match within error range
 
Do you need the total resistance between nodes M and N?

Draw the M node at the top and the N node at the bottom - imagine you put a battery with the + terminal at M and the negative at N ans see where the current can go. There are three possible paths. See now?
 
ok I got it thanks
 
How to combine them depends on the two points you pick. You want the resistance between K and L, yes? clearly MO, OP, PN are in series, so combine those first. How do you think you should combine the net of that with MN? Then with KM and NL?
 
I actually figured it out. It turns out I had the diagram drawn a bit wrong. but I fixed it thanks to you help
 
How to combine them depends on the two points you pick. You want the resistance between K and L, yes? clearly MO, OP, PN are in series, so combine those first. How do you think you should combine the net of that with MN? Then with KM and NL?
 

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