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BMcC
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Homework Statement
Consider the circuit shown in the diagram below, for R1 = 5 Ω, R2 = 8 Ω, R3 = 8 Ω, R4 = 8 Ω, and V0 = 8.0 V. Calculate the current through R4.
Homework Equations
Loop rule: The sum of all potential changes around a closed loop is zero
Junction rule: The currents entering and leaving a junction are equal
V = IR
The Attempt at a Solution
I guess I'm kind of lost with where to begin. The examples in class were a little more simplified but I'll say what my thought process is to solving it.
First I found the equivalent resistance through the whole circuit
1/R4 + 1/R3 = 1/Req34
1/8 + 1/8 = 1/Req34
Req34 = 4 Ω
Then that resistance + R2 = the equivalent resistance on the far left loop
4 + 8 = 12 Ω
Once more, to find the equivalent resistance between that and R1, I went
1/12 + 1/R1 = 1/Req
Req for the circuit = 3.53 Ω
Then to find the current through R4, I've been using V = IR where V = 8.0 V and Req = 3.53
I = 2.27 A
This is incorrect, I'm just not quite sure how else to approach this problem. Am I on the right track?
Thanks!