Solve Diode Circuit Problem: Homework Equations & Attempt at Solution

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a diode circuit problem involving two diodes, D1 and D2, with a voltage drop of 0.7V across each diode. The initial assumption was that both diodes were "on," leading to a calculated current of -0.57mA, indicating an incorrect assumption. Upon reevaluating, the user assumed D2 was "off," resulting in a current of 0.43mA and questioning the voltage across the circuit. The conversation emphasizes the importance of validating assumptions in circuit analysis.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of diode characteristics, specifically the 0.7V forward voltage drop.
  • Knowledge of Ohm's Law and its application in circuit analysis.
  • Familiarity with Kirchhoff's Voltage Law (KVL) for analyzing closed loops in circuits.
  • Basic skills in solving simultaneous equations for electrical circuits.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the impact of diode states (on/off) in series and parallel configurations.
  • Learn about advanced circuit analysis techniques, such as Thevenin's and Norton's theorems.
  • Explore simulation tools like LTspice for visualizing diode behavior in circuits.
  • Investigate the effects of temperature on diode performance and voltage drop.
USEFUL FOR

Electrical engineering students, hobbyists working on circuit design, and professionals analyzing diode circuits in practical applications.

dashkin111
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Homework Statement


See attachment

Homework Equations


We are to assume the voltage drop across diodes is .7v (don't use the diode equation!).

The Attempt at a Solution



I first was assuming that both diodes were "on". Then my work is as follows:

V1 is the voltage directly above diode D1 (the left most diode)...
[tex]I+ \frac{V_{1}-.7-(-5)}{5k\Omega}=\frac{5-V_{1}}{10k\Omega}[/tex]

[tex]I+ \frac{.7-.7+5}{5k\Omega}=\frac{5-.7}{10k\Omega}[/tex]

[tex]I=-.57mA[/tex]

Now since I is negative, one of my assumptions is wrong? So now I assume the rightmost one is "off" (D2).So.. then
Solving for I
[tex]I = \frac{5-.7}{10k\Omega}[/tex]

[tex]I = .43 mA[/tex]

Solving for V
Well.. since there's no current, v=-5?
Am I approaching this correctly?
 

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dashkin111 said:
So now I assume the rightmost one is "off" (D2).


So.. then
Solving for I
[tex]I = \frac{5-.7}{10k\Omega}[/tex]

[tex]I = .43 mA[/tex]

Solving for V
Well.. since there's no current, v=-5?



Am I approaching this correctly?
You're on your way. In this second case, what would be the value of V1? Does this agree with your assumption?
 

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