Thevinin vs Norton: What's the Difference?

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the fundamental differences between Thevenin and Norton equivalents in circuit analysis. Thevenin's equivalent simplifies a complex circuit into a voltage source (Vth) in series with a resistance (Rth) across two points, while Norton's equivalent represents the same circuit as a current source (In) in parallel with a resistance. It is established that the current sources Ith and In are not equal (Ith ≠ In), emphasizing the distinct nature of these two methods of representation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Thevenin's theorem
  • Familiarity with Norton's theorem
  • Basic circuit analysis techniques
  • Knowledge of voltage and current sources
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Thevenin's theorem in detail
  • Explore Norton's theorem and its applications
  • Learn about source transformations in circuit analysis
  • Practice circuit simplification techniques using both Thevenin and Norton equivalents
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Electrical engineering students, circuit designers, and anyone involved in circuit analysis and simplification techniques.

Ali Inam
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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 [itex]Ith \neq In[/itex]
 
We always joked in school that Norton stole Thevenin's therem by doing a source transformation. :)
 

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