What is the validity of this electrical circuit?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the validity of an electrical circuit, specifically focusing on the application of the node voltage method and the calculations related to voltages and currents in the circuit.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the node voltage method to analyze the circuit and calculate various currents and power dissipations. Some participants question the correctness of the equations used, particularly regarding the reference points for voltage and the impact of series resistors on node voltage calculations.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging in clarifying the setup of the circuit and the assumptions made regarding node voltages. There is a recognition of potential errors in the original poster's calculations, and some guidance has been offered regarding the treatment of voltage sources and resistors in the circuit.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of confusion regarding the placement of reference nodes and the impact of series components on voltage levels. The original poster expresses uncertainty about the use of negative signs in calculations related to current direction and potential differences.

GreenPrint
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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:
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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 doesn't look right?
 
GreenPrint said:
What exactly doesn't look right?

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

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