Solve RL Circuit Equation: Kirchhoff's Rule Explained

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving the correct Kirchhoff's equation for a circuit containing a resistor (R) and an inductor (L) with no external source. The correct equation is established as L(di/dt) + iR = 0, which accounts for the voltage across the resistor and the inductor. The participants emphasize the importance of drawing the circuit, defining current direction, and applying Faraday's Law to arrive at the correct formulation. The integration of these principles leads to the final equation L(di/dt) = -Ri.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Kirchhoff's Voltage Law
  • Familiarity with Faraday's Law of Electromagnetic Induction
  • Basic knowledge of circuit components: resistors and inductors
  • Proficiency in calculus, specifically differentiation
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Kirchhoff's Laws in complex circuits
  • Learn about the behavior of RLC circuits in transient analysis
  • Explore Faraday's Law and its implications in electromagnetic theory
  • Investigate the relationship between current, voltage, and resistance using Ohm's Law
USEFUL FOR

Electrical engineering students, circuit designers, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of RL circuits and applying Kirchhoff's Laws effectively.

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Suppose a circuit with resistor R and inductor L with no source. I am trying to find kirchhoffs equation for this circuit - I am getting iR -Ldi/dt = 0 as my equation which is apparently wrong. I just cannot understand how do I make equations for such circuits.
 
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Should that be iR + Ldi/dt = 0
 
Yes it should be but I don't get it why. Voltage across resistor is iR and then voltage across inductor decreases by Ldi/dt so iR-Ldi/dt=0
 
Draw your circuit and indicate an (arbitrary) direction, in which you want to count the current positive. Then use the right-hand rule to attach the surface-normal vector oriented positive relative to that direction of the current. Finally use Faraday's Law,
\partial_t \vec{B}=-\vec{\nabla} \times \vec{E},
and integrate (line integral) along the circuit in direction of the positve current. Then the left-hand side translates into L \frac{\mathrm{d} i}{\mathrm{d}t} for compact circuits, and the right-hand side you can transform into an integral along the surface, translating into -R i, where we have made use of Ohm's Law, \vec{E}=\vec{j}/\sigma. From this you get the desired equation,
L \frac{\mathrm{d} i}{\mathrm{d} t}=-R i.
 
Sorry I am unaware of some of the things you said. Can you simplify please?
 

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