Solve Coupled RC Circuit: Find V1(t) & V2(t)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a coupled RC circuit to find the voltages V1(t) and V2(t) over time, starting from an initial condition of zero voltage. The focus is on symbolic representation and the application of circuit analysis techniques.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the circuit equations and expresses the need to derive V1(t) and V2(t) symbolically.
  • Another participant suggests using nodal analysis and evaluating the circuit in the frequency domain.
  • A third participant questions the sufficiency of the problem definition, asking for component values, the type of current source, and initial conditions.
  • A participant proposes defining nodes and performing a Laplace transform to facilitate solving the system algebraically.
  • One participant notes that if the current source does not change at t=0, the capacitors can be disregarded.
  • Another participant expresses uncertainty about performing a Laplace transform and is advised to solve the differential equation in the time domain instead.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants have not reached a consensus on the approach to solve the problem, with multiple methods suggested and some uncertainty about the initial conditions and circuit parameters.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the definition of the problem, including missing component values and properties of the current source, which may affect the analysis.

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Homework Statement


Hello I want to solve the following circuit, I want to know how the voltage on R1 and R2 develop with time,
It start at t=0 when there is no voltage in the circuit ( all V=0). Its a symbolic question, I need to show the equation.
V1(t) = ? ,
V2(t) = ?
The current is a DC

Homework Equations



jr8ev9.png


The Attempt at a Solution



Well, noting much.. I just wrote it in a better way:
http://i62.tinypic.com/5w9gxz.pngVR1 = VC1
VR1 + VRc + VC2 = 0
VR2 = VC2
IR1 + IC1 + VRC = Iinj
IRc = IR2 + VC2
V_1 = V_{C1} = V_{R1} \\ V_2 = V_{R2} = V_{C2}

\frac{V_1}{R_1} + \frac{dV_1}{dt}*C_1 + \frac{V_{Rc}}{R_c} = I_{inj} \\<br /> \frac{V_{Rc}}{R_c} = \frac{V_2}{R_2} + C_2*\frac{dV_2}{dt}-->

\frac{dV_1}{dt}*C_1 = I_{inj} -\frac{V_{Rc}}{R_c} - \frac{V_1}{R_1} \\<br /> \frac{dV_2}{dt}*C_2 = \frac{V_2}{R_2} -\frac{V_{Rc}}{R_c}
 
Last edited:
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Do you know how to do nodal analysis?

evaluate the circuit in the frequency domain using nodal analysis.

In case you don't know nodal analysis, simply write a KCL at node V1 and V2 and solve.
 
You haven't defined the question sufficiently. Do you have component values or is this strictly a symbolic problem? What are the properties of the current source? Is it a DC source or an AC source? Any initial conditions?
 
Hi @gneill and @donpacino thank you for the replay, I added some info about the question.
I also tried to make some progress.
 
I would start by defining the node in the upper left as V1, the node in the upper right as V2, and the bottom node as ground. so VRc=V1-V2, V1=VR1=VC1, etc
Do a laplace transform (will allow you to solve the system with algebra) to get to the frequency domain.

write two kcls at the upper left and right nodes using V1,V2,Iinj,R1,R2,Rc,C1,C2
then do some algebra and do an inverse laplace transform to get to your time domain solution.

alternatively you can solve the second order differential equation.

just a note: I am operating under the assumption that at t=0 the current source changes values. If it does not then you can disregard the capacitors.
 
thank you donpacino but I do not know how to do laplace transform...
 
ok, then do what i told you, but solve the differential equation in the time domain. you will still do a KCL, but in the time domain similar to what you did above
 

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