Series RLC Circuit & Differential Equations

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the formulation of differential equations for a series RLC circuit connected to a voltage source Vs(t). Participants explore the relationships between inductor current iL(t), capacitor voltage Vc(t), and the source voltage Vs(t), addressing both theoretical and practical aspects of circuit analysis.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a general equation for a series RLC circuit: L(d^2/dt^2) + R(di/dt) + (1/C)i = 0, seeking assistance in deriving specific equations for inductor current and capacitor voltage.
  • Another participant suggests using Kirchhoff's Voltage Law (KVL) to relate the voltages across the inductor, resistor, and capacitor to the source voltage, providing equations for each component.
  • A third participant notes the importance of circuit configuration, indicating that the placement of components can affect the equations and emphasizes the need to express relationships in terms of charge when capacitors are present.
  • One participant requests a detailed calculation using phasors for impedance analysis, indicating familiarity with the concept but seeking further clarification.
  • Another participant states that phasors are only applicable for AC sinusoidal analysis, implying a limitation in the context of the discussion.
  • Questions arise regarding the meaning of "capacitive," with one participant seeking clarification on its distinction from capacitance, while another provides a brief definition.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying approaches to the problem, with some focusing on KVL and others on different methods of analysis. There is no consensus on a single method or solution, and some questions remain unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the dependency on circuit configuration and the necessity of including charge relationships when capacitors are involved. The discussion reflects a range of assumptions and interpretations regarding circuit analysis techniques.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to students and practitioners in electrical engineering, particularly those studying circuit analysis and differential equations related to RLC circuits.

pags920
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Homework Statement


I have a series RLC circuit, no values given, connected to a voltage source Vs(t). I am asked to write the differential equations for:

a. that relates the inductor current iL(t) to the source voltage Vs(t).
b. that relates the capactor voltage Vc(t) to the source voltage Vs(t).


The Attempt at a Solution



I was told that all it is was the general equation for a series RLC circuit:

L(d^2/dt^2) + R(di/dt) + (1/C)i = 0

Any help would be very appreciated.
 
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pags920 said:

Homework Statement


I have a series RLC circuit, no values given, connected to a voltage source Vs(t). I am asked to write the differential equations for:

a. that relates the inductor current iL(t) to the source voltage Vs(t).
b. that relates the capactor voltage Vc(t) to the source voltage Vs(t).


The Attempt at a Solution



I was told that all it is was the general equation for a series RLC circuit:

L(d^2/dt^2) + R(di/dt) + (1/C)i = 0

Any help would be very appreciated.

If you have a series circuit, you should use KVL:

V_L + V_R + V_C = V_S
Now
V_L = L\frac{di}{dt}
V_R = R i
i = C \frac{dV_C}{dt}

Replace this in the KVL equation and you have the equation for the capacitor voltage.
 
Hello! I too had to do a couple of these back in my D.E. Class!

First and foremost, a picture would be a great deal of help, secondly, depending on where your junctions are, and the amount/location of your resistors/capacitors/inductors, it's going to vary your equations.

Also, a really important thing to note is, if there ARE capacitors in your circuit, you're going to have to write every in that loop with the capacitor, in terms of charge.

There are two different ways you can do this, i'll try and make a little chart to help you out:

In terms of Current -- Use this if only inductors and resistors are present
Er(resistor)= R * i
EL(inductor)= L * di/dt
EC(capacitor)= N/A


In terms of Charge -- You must use this if you have a capacitor present, to relate everything
Er(resistor)= R * dq/dt
EL(inductor)= L * d2q/dt2
EC(capacitor)= (1/c)*q

If you have multiple branches (I cannot help unless I see a diagram) you will also have multiple equations.

But other than that, I'm still new to the site so...sorry about my lack of proper equation making skills!

Edit: Never mind about branches if your circuit is series!
 
i had to prove it and i did all the steps . I know the magnitude of the impedence of the circuit , but can anyone please do a detailed calculation by using phasors for this equation?? and thank you
 
Phasors are applicable only to AC sinusoidal analysis.
 
what is the meaning of capacitive? are they different with capacitance?
 
maisarah said:
what is the meaning of capacitive? are they different with capacitance?
Hi maisarah. Does your question relate to something in the thread you posted in? If so, can you point out where as I cannot see to what you are referring.

Capacitive refers to something characteristic of capacitance.
 

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