Engineering Understanding Simple Circuits: Solving a Homework Problem

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The discussion revolves around understanding a circuit involving two 1kΩ resistors and a voltage source. Participants clarify that the two 1kΩ resistors are in parallel, which affects current distribution. The current flows from the positive terminal of the battery through the first resistor and can split into multiple paths, including through the voltmeter. Suggestions are made to redraw the circuit for better clarity and to apply Kirchhoff's laws for a deeper understanding. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of circuit layout and principles in analyzing current flow.
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Homework Statement


aeaziv.png


Homework Equations



V=IR

The Attempt at a Solution



I have tried my best but can not figure out how this circuit works. Is the 2 1Ks in parallel? Why does the 1k with the voltage source have higher current?[/B]
 
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Unidan said:
I have tried my best but can not figure out how this circuit works. Is the 2 1Ks in parallel? Why does the 1k with the voltage source have higher current?
That's a neatly drawn schematic. Did you draw it or is that how it was given to you?

All circuits work on the basis that battery current leaves the + terminal and makes its way back to the battery's – end via external elements.

In your circuit, the current has to pass through the first 1kΩ resistor, but then it can split when it finds there are two separate and independent paths it can take to get back to the battery's – terminal.

strictly speaking, we could say there are 3 separate paths because the voltmeter itself presents an additional high-resistance path
 
NascentOxygen said:
That's a neatly drawn schematic. Did you draw it or is that how it was given to you?
It's an android app called 'EveryCircuit'. It is very useful for simulating a wide variety of electrical and electronic circuits.
Unidan said:
Is the 2 1Ks in parallel?
Yes. Have you studied the Kirchhoff's laws for electric circuits?
 
Perhaps redraw the circuit with the voltage source moved to the left hand side and with higher voltage nodes at the top and lower voltages at the bottom of the drawing. It should help your understanding of the circuit.
 

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