Wye-Delta and Series-Parallel Circuit Problem

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion focuses on solving a Wye-Delta and Series-Parallel circuit problem involving resistors of 10 ohms, 5 ohms, 3 ohms, 4 ohms, and 8 ohms. The user initially miscalculated the equivalent resistance by incorrectly assuming that the 10 ohm, 5 ohm, and 3 ohm resistors were in series. The correct approach involves recognizing that the 5 ohm and 3 ohm resistors are in series, while the 10 ohm resistor is not directly in series with them due to the branching current at node g. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding current flow to accurately determine series and parallel configurations.

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Homework Statement


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Determine the equivalent resistance and the total current!

Homework Equations



Ohm's Law
Wye-Delta Transformation

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
I do the series on 10 ohm, 5 ohm, 3 ohm resistors, because it is node e-g,g-h,h-f, so it becomes 18 ohms (e-f). Then I do the parallel 18 ohms // 4 ohms = 3.272 ohms (node e-f).

Then, I do the series 8 ohms with 3.272 ohms then parallel it with 0.0263 ohms. Let's call this result R_a (node d-f)
Also, I do the series 2 ohms with 60 ohms then parallel it with 0.0526 ohms. Let's call this result R_b (node c-d)

Then, I do the series R_b with R_a = R_c (node c-f) which is parallel to 0.3157 ohms.

After doing the parallel calculation, I do the series with 4 ohms.
But, it turns out that it is wrong answer.

The question is: Where did I get wrong? Please help. (I already know the correct answer and the correct step; but I still couldn't understand where I got wrong)
 
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terryds said:
I do the series on 10 ohm, 5 ohm, 3 ohm resistors...
These three resistors are not in series. The 5 ohm and 3 ohm are in series.
 
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lewando said:
These three resistors are not in series. The 5 ohm and 3 ohm are in series.

Alright, I understand!
It seems that I can't make it series because the current at 10 ohm is different than 5 ohm and 3 ohms!
 
To start, yes the 3Ω and 5Ω are in series, because at node h, ther is only one way for current to flow, but you cannot say the same about these two and 10Ω, because at node g, current has two directions it can flow. That is how you can make decisions if a resistor (or equivalent resistance) is in series with another resistor.
 
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One option, would be to treat the 4Ω, 8Ω and 10Ω a Y, and turn that into an equivalent Delta, then proceed with those equivalents.
 
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