What is the validity of this electrical circuit?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around the validity of an electrical circuit analysis using the node voltage method. The user initially calculates the voltage and currents but finds discrepancies in power calculations, indicating that the total power does not sum to zero. A key point raised is the incorrect assumption regarding the voltage at a node due to the presence of a series resistor, which affects the calculations. Clarifications are provided about how to properly account for the reference node and the direction of current flow when determining power. The conversation emphasizes the importance of accurate node voltage assignments and the implications for circuit analysis.
GreenPrint
Messages
1,186
Reaction score
0
http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/771/captureuce.png

Homework Statement



Determine if the circuit is valid or invalid.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Please note which node I used as the ground node and which node I have labeled V_{1}. By the node voltage method

\frac{V_{1}}{8} + 10 - 2 + \frac{V_{1} - 10}{5} = 0
\frac{13V_{1}}{40} + 6 = 0
\frac{13V_{1}}{40} = -6
V_{1} = -\frac{240}{13} V

I_{1} = \frac{V_{1}}{8} = -\frac{240}{13*8} = -\frac{30}{13} A
I_{2} = \frac{V_{1}-10}{5} = \frac{\frac{-240}{13}-10}{5} = -\frac{74}{13}
I_{3} = 10 + I_{2} = 10 + {-\frac{74}{13}} = \frac{56}{13}

V = IR
P = IV
P = I^{2}R

P_{8Ω} = I^{2}R = (-\frac{30}{13})^{2}8 = \frac{7200}{169}
P_{5Ω} = I^{2}R = (-\frac{74}{13})^{2}5 = \frac{27380}{169}
P_{2Ω} = I^{2}R = (\frac{56}{13})^{2}2 = \frac{6272}{169}
P_{10V} = IV = \frac{56}{13}10 = \frac{560}{13}
P_{2A} = \frac{240}{13}2 = IV = \frac{480}{13}
P_{10A} = IV = 10{-\frac{240}{13}-\frac{74}{13}} = \frac{3140}{13}

These don't add up to zero. I'm kind of confused as to when you are supposed to use a negative sign or not. I used a negative sign in the last calculation because the current is going from lower potential to higher potential. Thanks for nay help you can provide.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
In your first equation, the final term ##\frac{V_1 - 10}{5}## is not correct. The point where the 5Ω resistor terminates is not at 10V above reference since there's a series resistor of 2Ω in the path. You have two nodes to deal with.
 
Last edited:
Hi gneill,

Why can't I count the node where the 10 volt source, 5 ohm resistor, and 10 Amp source meet to be 10 volts?
 
GreenPrint said:
Hi gneill,

Why can't I count the node where the 10 volt source, 5 ohm resistor, and 10 Amp source meet to be 10 volts?

You could if the reference node was at the bottom of the 10V source. But it isn't. There's a 2Ω resistor in the way.
 
Ok thanks I forgot about that resistor.
 
http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/1566/capturekwm.png

I believe the picture in this post is accurate. However how would I calculated the power dissipated in the 2A source?

I know I use

P = IV
P = 2(0-(-19.2))
or
P = 2(-19.2-0)

which one is correct?

Thanks
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Your node voltages and currents don't look right. Better recheck your calculations.

If the potential across a current source is negative (if it's driving a current from a higher potential to a lower potential), then it's absorbing energy.
 
What exactly dosen't look right?
 
GreenPrint said:
What exactly dosen't look right?

All the voltages and currents that you've added to the drawing.
 
Back
Top