Understanding the Junction Rule for Circuit Analysis

[abcdmichelle]

Homework Statement

I need to find the current equation for the junction in node a in the following circuit:
http://i749.photobucket.com/albums/xx137/abcdmichelle/gjgjhg.jpg

Homework Equations

Current in = Current out so I(in)=I(out)

The Attempt at a Solution

The arrows in the diagram represent the direction of the current.
At node a I thought the junction rule would be

I(3)=I(2)+I(1)

Is this wrong?
I think it is but I don't understand why!?
Please help!

 

[diazona]

Yes, that is wrong... how did you come up with that?

Anyway, here's how you do the junction rule:
1. List all currents flowing in to the junction. This means, for each piece of wire connected to that junction for which the current arrow points into the junction, write down the associated current.
2. List all currents flowing out of the junction. This means, for each piece of wire connected to that junction for which the current arrow points away from junction, write down the associated current.
3. Write the junction equation, which is
(sum of list #1) = (sum of list #2)

 

[abcdmichelle]

Thank you so much!

oh ok, so it would just be
I(3)+I(2)=I(1)

right?

 

[diazona]

Yep, that's it.

 

[abcdmichelle]

Thanks again! :) :) :)