Thevinin vs Norton: What's the Difference?

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The Thevenin equivalent simplifies a complex circuit into a voltage source (Vth) in series with a resistance (Rth) across two points, while the Norton equivalent transforms it into a current source (In) in parallel with a resistance. Both methods represent the same circuit behavior but use different parameters. It is important to note that the short-circuit current (Ith) from Thevenin is not equal to the Norton current (In). The discussion humorously highlights the relationship between the two methods, suggesting that Norton derived his approach from Thevenin's theorem. Understanding these equivalents is crucial for circuit analysis and simplification.
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What is the basic difference between a thevinin equivalent and a norton equivalent ? !

Can we assume that Ith (from the thevinin) and In (from the Norton) are same ? !
 
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The basic difference is, for the given complex circuit with many elements, in Thevenin terms, we find equivalent voltage Vth and resistance Rth across a point AB ie., the circuit is simplified into a voltage source in series with a resistance connected to AB.
While in Norton terms, we find equivalent current source and parallel resistance across AB. They are just two ways of representing the same thing.
Also note Ith \neq In
 
We always joked in school that Norton stole Thevenin's therem by doing a source transformation. :)
 

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