0 resistance wire in parallel circuit

In summary, the question discusses the direction of current flow in a circuit with two resistors connected in parallel and an inductor. The upper path has zero resistance, but the current still goes up. It is explained that current always takes the path with the smallest resistance, and the voltage across the inductor is 0 in this scenario. This means that the voltage across the other resistor, R2, is also 0 and the current through it is 0.
  • #1
ehrenfest
2,020
1
In question 1 b at the following site:

http://ocw.mit.edu/NR/rdonlyres/Physics/8-02Electricity-and-MagnetismSpring2002/6D148C87-C69B-44B6-AECA-CB9D875E0F40/0/exam2.pdf

I am having trouble with 1b. At the junction right after R1, why does the current go only up and not left when the upper path has zero resistance? Is there a law that says current always travels in the path of least resistance?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
ehrenfest said:
In question 1 b at the following site:

http://ocw.mit.edu/NR/rdonlyres/Physics/8-02Electricity-and-MagnetismSpring2002/6D148C87-C69B-44B6-AECA-CB9D875E0F40/0/exam2.pdf

I am having trouble with 1b. At the junction right after R1, why does the current go only up and not left when the upper path has zero resistance? Is there a law that says current always travels in the path of least resistance?

What is the voltage across the inductor in part b?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #3
Yes current always takes the path with the smallest resistance.
 
  • #4
You can also calculate the current in R2. Since current is finite and the resistance across the inductor is 0 in part b... the voltage across the inductor is I3*0=0. Hence the voltage across R2 is 0. I2=0/R2 = 0. So the current through R2 is 0.
 
  • #5
I see. Thanks.
 

FAQ: 0 resistance wire in parallel circuit

What is "0 resistance wire in parallel circuit"?

0 resistance wire in parallel circuit refers to a type of electrical circuit in which the wires are connected side by side, allowing for multiple pathways for the electric current to flow. The term "0 resistance" means that the wires have negligible resistance, resulting in a constant and even distribution of current throughout the circuit.

How does "0 resistance wire in parallel circuit" work?

In a parallel circuit, each wire provides a separate pathway for the electric current to flow. This means that the current can split and flow through each wire simultaneously, resulting in a lower overall resistance compared to a series circuit. The 0 resistance wires in a parallel circuit ensure that there is no significant resistance, allowing for maximum current flow.

What are the advantages of using "0 resistance wire in parallel circuit"?

One of the main advantages of using 0 resistance wire in parallel circuit is that it allows for a more efficient distribution of electric current. This can result in less power loss and can also help to prevent overheating of the wires. Additionally, using 0 resistance wire can also help to reduce the overall cost of the circuit as it is relatively inexpensive compared to other types of wire.

Can "0 resistance wire in parallel circuit" be used in all electrical circuits?

No, 0 resistance wire is typically only used in specific applications where a constant and even distribution of current is necessary. In other circuits, such as those with varying currents or high voltages, using 0 resistance wire may not be practical or safe.

Are there any potential drawbacks to using "0 resistance wire in parallel circuit"?

One potential drawback of using 0 resistance wire in parallel circuits is that it can be more difficult to troubleshoot and repair any issues that may arise. This is because the current is spread out over multiple pathways, making it harder to pinpoint the source of a problem. Additionally, 0 resistance wire may not be as durable or long-lasting as other types of wire, so it may need to be replaced more frequently.

Similar threads

Parallel circuit with internal resistance
Replies
6
Views
1K
RC Circuit with parallel resistor
Replies
6
Views
2K
Resistance with resistors between parallel resistors
Replies
5
Views
1K
Will any charge flow through the circuit?
2
Replies
36
Views
4K
Equivalent resistance in a parallel circuit
Replies
6
Views
2K
Kirchoff's Law - Wire in parallel with light bulb
Replies
4
Views
2K
Unknown value of added resistor in parallel
Replies
4
Views
3K
Calculating Resistance in a Parallel Circuit without Voltage Information
Replies
8
Views
18K
RL Parallel Circuit Behavior Upon Switch Closure
Replies
16
Views
2K
Find the equivalent resistance (Req) of the simple circuit.
Replies
4
Views
4K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top