What is the terminal voltage Vab in this circuit?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the terminal voltage Vab in a circuit involving a battery with an open-circuit voltage and internal resistance. Participants are examining the implications of the given values and the setup of the circuit.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to calculate the terminal voltage using a specific formula and provides a numerical answer. Some participants question the labeling of current direction and voltage drop across the internal resistor, suggesting a need for clarification on the circuit's configuration.

Discussion Status

There is a mix of validation and questioning regarding the original poster's answer. Some participants affirm the correctness of the calculation while others raise concerns about the interpretation of the circuit elements, indicating an ongoing exploration of the problem's nuances.

Contextual Notes

Participants note ambiguity in the question regarding the labeling of circuit components and the direction of current flow, which may affect the understanding of the problem.

Fatima Hasan
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Homework Statement



33_D8_C56_C-_AA1_B-4_DF7-_BE8_F-359039_BA95_BA.jpg

Homework Equations


Vab =| Σ IR - Σ ε |

The Attempt at a Solution


Vab = | - 0.2*2 - (-12) |
= 11.6 V
Can somebody check my answer please ?
 

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Perfect!
 
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For me the question is a bit ambiguous, but if they are saying that the open-circuit battery voltage is 12.0V and the internal resistance is 0.2 Ohms, then your answer is correct, but you have labeled the current direction and voltage drop across the internal resistor backwards. The positive terminal of the battery is "a" on the left, and positive current flows out that end of the battery (so it returns into "b" from the outside direction, right-to-left).
 
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Berkeman is indeed correct. I just looked at the values of voltage, current and resistance when I replied.
 
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