Solving Resistors in a Circuit: Working Backwards

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    Circuit Resistors
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a circuit problem involving resistors, specifically working backwards to determine the current through a certain resistor after finding the total current in the circuit. Participants explore concepts related to voltage and current in resistive circuits, as well as the application of systems of equations to solve for unknown values.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether the principles of voltage in parallel and charge in series for capacitors also apply to circuits with only resistors.
  • Another participant expresses confidence in their approach but suggests that a different method might have been more effective.
  • A participant mentions needing to compute the voltage of the entire circuit and indicates they have set up systems of equations, but they are uncertain about how to proceed with the calculations as taught.
  • One participant provides specific values for resistances and the current in one resistor, asking for the ideal voltage of the battery.
  • Another participant links to a similar discussion on mesh currents and resistances, implying a connection to the current topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion contains multiple competing views and approaches to solving the circuit problem. Participants express uncertainty and differing methods without reaching a consensus.

Contextual Notes

Some participants reference specific values and methods, but there are unresolved mathematical steps and assumptions regarding the application of circuit principles.

csmith23
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Problem: I have found the total current running through the entire circuit. My problem is now I am trying to work backwards to determine the current through a certain resistor. I know when dealing with basic capacitors, voltage in parallel is the same, and charge in series is the same. Does the same apply to working with a circuit that only involves resistors?

Thanks.
 
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I believe I found the correct way to do this. It would have helped if I was approaching the problem a different way.
 
Welcome to MHB, csmith23! Could you please post a picture of the problem that's not hidden behind a password? Or type up the problem statement?

Thanks!
 
I think this is the same as http://mathhelpboards.com/other-advanced-topics-20/mesh-currents-emfs-resistances-10968.html.
 

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