Undergrad Why in an electric circuit with only a generator the resistance R=infinity?

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SUMMARY

In an electric circuit with only a generator, the resistance R is considered infinite due to the absence of a completed circuit, resulting in zero current flow. This simplification is commonly used in educational contexts to illustrate fundamental concepts in circuit theory. While the actual resistance is not infinite, it is treated as such for clarity. The discussion emphasizes the importance of circuit completion for current to flow and the need for precise terminology when discussing electrical components.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of electric circuits
  • Familiarity with Ohm's Law
  • Knowledge of current flow and resistance concepts
  • Ability to interpret electrical schematics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of circuit completion and its impact on current flow
  • Learn about Ohm's Law and its applications in circuit analysis
  • Explore the concept of ideal vs. real components in electrical circuits
  • Review how to read and create electrical schematics for better understanding
USEFUL FOR

Students of electrical engineering, educators teaching circuit theory, and hobbyists interested in understanding the fundamentals of electric circuits.

samy4408
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Why in an electric circuit with only a generator the resistance R=infinity?

[Newbie's post edited by a Mentor to delete extraneous embellishment]
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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Because you don't have a completed circuit. Just an open. Of course, in reality the resistance isn't infinite, just very, very high. But we call it infinite to simplify things when teaching things to students.

Also, there's no need to throw half a dozen question marks into a sentence. One will suffice.
 
samy4408 said:
Why in an electric circuit with only a generator the resistance R=infinity?

[Newbie's post edited by a Mentor to delete extraneous embellishment]

Because the current is zero.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
samy4408 said:
Why in an electric circuit with only a generator the resistance R=infinity?
What's "a generator" in your question? Can you post a schematic?
 
As worded, the question implies to me zero resistance, not infinite. So yeah, we need a diagram.
 

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