Understanding Mesh Analysis in Basic Circuit Analysis

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on understanding mesh analysis in basic circuit analysis, specifically addressing the relationship between currents I1, I2, and I3 in a given circuit. The user initially struggled with the equation I1 = I2 - I3, mistakenly considering it as I1 = I3 - I2. The resolution came from recognizing the direction of current flow, which adheres to Ohm's Law, where current flows from high potential to low potential. The user clarified that V_x is calculated as V_x = (I2 - I3) × 4000, confirming their understanding of the circuit dynamics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic knowledge of Ohm's Law
  • Understanding of mesh analysis techniques
  • Familiarity with circuit diagrams
  • Ability to interpret current flow in electrical circuits
NEXT STEPS
  • Study mesh analysis methods in detail
  • Practice solving circuit problems using Ohm's Law
  • Explore the concept of voltage drops across resistors
  • Learn about Kirchhoff's laws for circuit analysis
USEFUL FOR

Students preparing for exams in electrical engineering, circuit designers, and anyone looking to strengthen their understanding of mesh analysis and current flow in circuits.

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This is a question from a review for our midterm coming up soon. I don't understand what I am doing wrong and need some guidance. It would be rather tedious for you (the reader) to view an ASCII circuit, so here is a http://static.flickr.com/46/118451767_63645eb724_b.jpg"of my work:

http://static.flickr.com/46/118451767_63645eb724_b.jpg

Sorry for the link to another page. I couldn't resize it to upload to physicsforums because I don't have software on this computer to do it. I PROMISE it is just my work.

Thanks in advance.

EDIT:I forgot to draw [itex]V_x[/itex] on the circuit diagram! It is supposed to be over [tex]R_{4k\Omega}[/tex] with the labeled [tex]+[/tex] and [tex]-[/tex] right next to the loop 2 label.
 
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By Ohm's Law, [tex]V_x = (I_2 - I_3) \times 4000[/tex], thus [tex]I_1 = I_2-I_3[/tex], and not [tex]I_3-I_2[/tex] as you have written.
 
Yeah, I get ohms law, and that the voltage for Vx is a combination of I1 and I2 multiplied by the resistance. I don't understand WHY it is:

[tex]I1 = I2-I3[/tex]

and not: [tex]I1= I3-I2[/tex]

oh *shoot*... nevermind I got it now.

The current is going to run from the high potential to the low potential, from positive to negative. If the current is running from positive to negative then the current that runs along side it is a positive I2 and a NEGATIVE I3.

For some reason I was thinking that the current should run from negative to positive.cool. thanks.
 

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