RLC circuit - Differential equation - Stationary current calculation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the calculation of stationary current in an RLC circuit using differential equations. Participants explore the mathematical approach to determine the current after the system has reached a steady state, addressing potential errors in reasoning and calculations.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • The original poster asserts that the stationary current should be zero based on electrical reasoning but struggles with the mathematical calculation, arriving at -2.4A.
  • Some participants clarify that i'' is not zero because i' equals 20 only at t=0, suggesting that the differential equation should be solved considering the steady state conditions.
  • One participant proposes two approaches: solving the differential equation and taking the limit as t approaches infinity, or analyzing the steady state values of i' and i'' to solve for the current.
  • The original poster acknowledges a flawed assumption regarding i'' and expresses a realization that they already have the necessary starting values for the analysis.
  • Another participant agrees with the reasoning that in a stable state, i'' approaches zero, although they question the validity of using infinity in their argument.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the need to reconsider the assumptions about i'' and the conditions for steady state, but there is no consensus on the best approach to solve the problem or on the correctness of the initial calculations.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions regarding the definitions of steady state and the implications of using limits in the analysis. The discussion reflects a mix of exploratory reasoning and technical clarification without reaching a definitive conclusion.

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Homework Statement



I'm decent with differential equations for RLC circuits, and I KNOW the stationary current will be zero, but I need help to work it out mathematically, because my maths gets me -2.4A (...)

L: 0.05H
C: 0.04F
R: 3 Ω
U (source) = 1 V

I've got the transient solution: c1e-10t + C2e-50t

Known:

i(0+) = 0 (coil prevents instant change in current)
i'(0+) = u/L = 20

Once the capacitor is charged up, it will block the current. In other words, the stationary current will be zero.

The Attempt at a Solution



So I could simply declare that, on electrical reasoning, but I want to calculate it. The problem is, my calculation is wrong. Something is wrong.

Been banging my head against this for a while, hope somebody can help me out!

Differential equation: L*i'' + R*i' +1/c*i = u'

i''=0, because i'=20

u'=0, because u=1

I call the stationary current A:

L*0 + R*20 + 1/c A = 0

A=-20*R*C= -2.4

What have I done wrong? If I lack information, please let me know.
 
Last edited:
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i'' isn't 0 because i'=20. i'=20 only when t=0.

You have two approaches: 1. Solve the differential equation and then take the limit as t goes to infinity; 2. Argue what i'' and i' equal when the system has reached steady state, plug those values into the differential equation, and then solve for the current.
 
Last edited:
vela said:
i'' isn't 0 because i'=20. i'=20 only when t=0.

You have two approaches: 1. Solve the differential equation and then take the limit as t goes to infinity; 2. Argue what i'' and i' equal when the system has reached steady state, plug those values into the differential equation, and then solve for the current.

Hmm.. well going with approach 2, that makes sense. There will be no change of i when the system is stable.

It's real late here, going to take a look at it tomorrow. Thanks! I will ask again if I am still stumped heh.

Edit: And yeah, my assumption about i''= 0 because i'(0)=20 is of course flawed.. It's the Christmas break that made me forget some things!
 
Alright, looking at the work again today.

Well it seems to me I already have the starting values I needed!

i(0+)=0
i'(0+)=U/L=20

I don't need i'' for that aspect.

And yeah, if I go with the second approach you outlined, using reason and knowledge of the RLC-circuit, there is no change of i when it is stable, so that means the i''(∞)=0.

Not sure if using infinity in an argument is sound, but it works!
 

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