Voltage Source and Unknown Potential: A Super Node?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of supernodes in circuit analysis, specifically regarding a voltage source connected between a ground and a node of unknown potential. Participants explore whether a voltage source, such as a 5V source, qualifies as a supernode and the implications for the potential at various nodes in the circuit.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that a voltage source connected between ground and a node of unknown potential constitutes a supernode.
  • Others argue that the 5V source is indeed a supernode construct, having one referenced node and one unreferenced node.
  • One participant expresses the view that the concept of supernodes adds unnecessary complexity to nodal analysis.
  • There is a question regarding the potential at node E, with some suggesting it could be zero or 5V.
  • Another participant asserts that since node E is at the ground symbol, it must be at ground potential.
  • A participant raises a question about the effect of a wire connecting ground and node E on the potential at node E, expressing uncertainty about the influence of other sources in the circuit.
  • One participant states that the positive side of the voltage source being tied to ground does not change the fact that node G is at -5V.
  • Clarification is provided that node E is indeed ground, reinforcing the idea that its potential is zero.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the definition and utility of supernodes, with some agreeing on the classification of the 5V source while others contest the relevance of the concept. The potential at node E remains a point of uncertainty, with no consensus reached.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions regarding the definitions of nodes and the implications of connecting wires in the circuit. The discussion does not clarify the mathematical steps involved in determining the potentials at the nodes.

cavalieregi
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If a voltage source is connected between a ground and a node of unknown potential will it be a super node.
For example would the 5V source be part of a supernode?
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Yes, the 5V source is a supernode construct. In this case it has one referenced node (E) and one unreferenced node (G). Supernodes usually refer to voltage sources that have both sides off of ground and thus have two unreferenced nodes. Personally, I find the whole concept of supernodes to be a useless verbal addition to nodal analysis.
 
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phinds said:
Yes, the 5V source is a supernode construct. In this case it has one referenced node (E) and one unreferenced node (G). Supernodes usually refer to voltage sources that have both sides off of ground and thus have two unreferenced nodes. Personally, I find the whole concept of supernodes to be a useless verbal addition to nodal analysis.

So VE would still be zero right or 5V?
 
Ve is AT the ground symbol, so how could it possibly be anything but ground?
 
I was just wondering if a wire was connected between ground and node E would in this case VE still be 0V. I was wondering maybe the source to the right could also affect it. Sorry if dumb question but I can't get my head around it.
 
The fact that the positive side of the voltage source is tied to ground is irrelevant. Ground is ground. In terms of the circuit, node G is at -5V

As for "A wire connected between ground and node E", node E IS ground.
 
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Cool thanks.
 

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