Using the superposition principle

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the current (I) in a circuit using the superposition principle. The problem involves analyzing a circuit with multiple voltage and current sources, focusing on the contributions from each source to the total current.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the superposition principle by calculating individual currents (i_1, i_2) while expressing uncertainty about how to solve for the current i_3. Some participants question the need for a diagram to clarify the circuit setup, while others suggest considering the current splitting at the nodes based on resistance ratios.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, with some providing guidance on how to approach the calculation of i_3 based on the known current and resistance ratios. There is no explicit consensus yet, as the original poster remains uncertain about the final steps.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a diagram that may be helpful for understanding the circuit configuration, indicating that visual representation could clarify the problem further. The original poster's calculations and assumptions are under discussion, particularly regarding the current distribution in the circuit.

Edwardo_Elric
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Homework Statement


Find I in the circuit using the superposition principle
Circuit1.jpg

Homework Equations


superposition:
I = i_1 + i_2 + i_3

The Attempt at a Solution


for i_1 we neglect the 12V and the 4A sources:
(8 + 2 + 6)i_1 - 16 = 0
i_1 = 1A

for i_2 we neglect the 16V and the 4A sources:
(8 + 2 + 6)i_2 + 12 = 0
i_2 = -0.75

i don't actually know how to solve for the current in i_3:
Circuit2.jpg

since there are two nodes only i use parallel resistors:
6 + 8 = 14ohms... and 2 ohms are parallel
1/14 + 1/2 = 1/R
R = 1.75
current source = 4 A
so the current source and 1.75 are in parallel... so what i need is to solve the outer current,i_3
now I am really stuck can someone help pls
ans. I = 0.75A
 
Last edited:
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Is there a diagram or anything? May be helpful, at least for me.
 
lukas86 said:
Is there a diagram or anything? May be helpful, at least for me.

what kind of diagram?
it is already shown: outer current of parallel(2 ohm and 4A) is required
 
Hi Edwardo Elric,

You almost have the current for i3. You know that the 4A is splitting, with part of it going to the 2 ohm branch, and part going to the 14 ohm branch. Now the question is, if that is true, how much of the 4A goes in the 14ohm branch? That is i3.

You can find it by considering that since the ratios of the resistances are 1:7, the ratio of the currents must be 7:1. Do you get the answer?
 

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