Understanding the Limitations of Superposition Principle in Electronics

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the limitations of the superposition principle in electronics, particularly regarding its application to non-linear and unilateral circuits, such as diode circuits. Participants clarify that while superposition is traditionally applicable to linear and bilateral circuits, it can still be utilized in diode problems by making assumptions about the diode states. By modeling diodes as linear components under specific conditions, superposition can yield valid results. The consensus emphasizes that understanding the circuit's behavior and applying the correct methods, such as V=IR, is crucial for successful analysis.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the superposition principle in circuit analysis
  • Familiarity with linear and non-linear circuit components
  • Knowledge of diode characteristics and behavior
  • Proficiency in applying Ohm's Law (V=IR)
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the application of superposition in non-linear circuits
  • Study diode modeling techniques for circuit analysis
  • Explore advanced circuit analysis methods, including Thevenin's and Norton's theorems
  • Learn about the impact of unilateral components on circuit behavior
USEFUL FOR

Electronics students, circuit designers, and engineers seeking to deepen their understanding of circuit analysis techniques, particularly in relation to non-linear components and the application of the superposition principle.

Godwin Kessy
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According to superposition principle the circuit involved must be linear and bilateral right?
But how comes the theorem is sometimes used in some of electronics problems example the diode circuits of which are unilateral circuits... Can anyone please explain me clearly the limitations of this theorem...?
 
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Well I haven't seen the examples in question, but one should be able to use superposition for a diode problem, once assumptions about the diode states are made.
For each diode state the diode symbol could correspond to a linear circuit model (perhaps a voltage source, or a voltage source and a resistance in series). For valid sets of diode states, superposition should hold.
 
I would think superposition would work for any of your circuits with more than one supply.

Follow your V=IR rules, etc...and all should be good.

Regardless of the linearity of your circuit...

Let's say you have a non linear circuit and you find what you are looking for...say the vars consumed by a capacitor.

Now let's say you add another source to the circuit.

Whatever method you used the first time...just use again for the second source.

When the other source is a voltage source...short it...when the other source is a current source...open it.

I've often said that V=IR will get you 50% thru school. Well...superposition will get you through the other 50%...lol.

Superposition is the absolute king of electronics. Embrace it. Love it.
 
Last edited:
Most likely this can only be answered by an "old timer". I am making measurements on an uA709 op amp (metal can). I would like to calculate the frequency rolloff curves (I can measure them). I assume the compensation is via the miller effect. To do the calculations I would need to know the gain of the transistors and the effective resistance seen at the compensation terminals, not including the values I put there. Anyone know those values?

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