Solving Complex Circuits - Voltage & Current w/ Resistance

AI Thread Summary
To determine the voltage across and current through each resistor in the circuit, the total resistance was calculated as 36.7 ohms using parallel and series combinations. However, without a specified battery voltage or electromotive force (emf), the current and voltage can only be expressed in terms of the unknown voltage source, denoted as E. The voltage division method can be applied to find the voltage across each resistor based on their resistance values relative to the total equivalent resistance. The discussion highlights the importance of having a known voltage source to solve for current and voltage accurately. The confusion around the term "E" clarifies that it refers to the voltage source, not current.
anonymous820
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Homework Statement



PHYSICS.jpg


R=resistor

determine the voltage across and the current through each resistor for the circuit.

The Attempt at a Solution



1&2=parallel 1/50+1/25=3/50 --> 50/3=16.7 ohms

3&4=parallel 1/10+1/10=1/5 --> 5 ohms

5&6=series 5+10=15 ohms

total resistance=36.7 ohms

so my question is how do you figure out the current and voltage with just the resistance given to you?
 
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Did they give you a battery voltage or emf?
 
nope. that's why i can't figure out anything besides the resistance. i don't even think the question has possible answer.
 
If you're not given a number for E, the answer has to be expressed in terms of E.
Then use voltage division immediately (no loop or node equations necessary)
R = total equivalent resistance
V across (R1 parallel R2) = E ( [R1 parallel R2] / R)
V across (R3 parallel R4) = E ( [R3 parallel R4] / R)
Voltage across R5 = E (R5 / R)
Voltage across R6 = E (R6 / R)
 
what does the E stand for? current?
 
I meant voltage source E. I got you mixed up with someone else who had a battery named E.
 
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