What is the relationship between I_eq and i_1, i_2, i_3 in Kirchhoff's Laws?

[math4everyone]

Homework Statement

I have the following circuit

What is the relation between $$I_{eq}~~and~~ i_1, i_2, i_3$$?

Homework Equations

Kirchhoff Laws

The Attempt at a Solution

See the image above

 

[kuruman]

You have correctly found that i₁=i₂+i₃. What can you say about the relative size of i₂ and i₃?

 

[math4everyone]

You have correctly found that i₁=i₂+i₃. What can you say about the relative size of i₂ and i₃?

I think they are equal

 

[kuruman]

They are, but do you know the reason why?

 

[math4everyone]

They are, but do you know the reason why?

Yes:

 

[kuruman]

OK great. You have found the relations between i₁, i₂ and i₃. All that remains is how I_eq. fits in the picture. Any ideas?

 

[math4everyone]

OK great. You have found the relations between i₁, i₂ and i₃. All that remains is how I_eq. fits in the picture. Any ideas?

I would say it's the same as i₁ because it's the same current that flows through the resistors.

 

[kuruman]

Correct. It looks like you are done.