Solve RL Circuit Equation: Kirchhoff's Rule Explained

AI Thread Summary
In a circuit with a resistor R and an inductor L, the correct application of Kirchhoff's law leads to the equation Ldi/dt + iR = 0. The voltage across the resistor is given by iR, while the inductor's voltage opposes the change in current, represented by Ldi/dt. To derive the equation, one should consider the direction of current flow and apply Faraday's Law, which relates the change in magnetic flux to the induced electromotive force. This results in the relationship Ldi/dt = -Ri, confirming the correct formulation. Understanding these principles clarifies the behavior of the circuit under the given conditions.
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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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