Finding independent loops in basic circuits.

In summary, the conversation discusses a question about finding independent loops in a circuit, with the given definition of an independent loop being one that contains at least one branch not part of any other independent loop. The question was initially thought to have 3 independent loops on the right-hand side, but it was later realized that this was incorrect due to the sharing of branches in the middle loop. The total number of branches in the circuit is 5, and there are 3 nodes. The conversation also touches on the subjectivity of drawing independent loops, with an example provided.
  • #1
NewtonianAlch
453
0

Homework Statement


This was a question on my lecture slides which I didn't quite understand during the lecture.

Here is the circuit:

http://img843.imageshack.us/img843/3548/nodesbranchesloops.jpg

The question was to find independent loops in the circuit.

On the left-hand side I drew in the loops that my lecturer indicated.

This was the given definition for an independent loop:

A loop is said to be independent if it contains at least one branch which is not part of any other independent loop.

So there are 5 branches in the circuit and 3 nodes.

My initial thought of the independent loops is on the right-hand side, which was supposedly incorrect, but I don't see how it's wrong. The third loop on the right I drew has at least one branch (current source) which is not part of any other independent loop.

Also, wouldn't this entirely depend on how you draw the loops? For e.g. would this be correct?

http://img198.imageshack.us/img198/3092/nodesbranchesloops2.jpg

Thanks
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Nvm! I see why it can't be now. Making the right-hand side an independent loop would mean the middle one is no longer independent because the two resistors in parallel (branches) are shared.
 

FAQ: Finding independent loops in basic circuits.

What is the purpose of finding independent loops in basic circuits?

The purpose of finding independent loops in basic circuits is to identify and analyze the different closed loop paths within a circuit. These independent loops can help in understanding the overall behavior and functioning of the circuit.

How do you identify independent loops in a basic circuit?

To identify independent loops in a basic circuit, you can start by labeling the nodes and branches of the circuit. Then, follow the path of current flow and identify any loops that do not intersect or share any common branches. These loops are considered to be independent.

Why is it important to find independent loops in a circuit?

Finding independent loops in a circuit is important because it allows for a better understanding of the circuit's behavior and can help in troubleshooting and analyzing potential problems. It also helps in simplifying complex circuits and makes it easier to calculate voltages and currents in the circuit.

What tools or techniques can be used to find independent loops in basic circuits?

Some common tools and techniques used to find independent loops in basic circuits include Kirchhoff's laws, nodal analysis, and mesh analysis. These methods involve systematic approaches to analyzing and identifying the independent loops in a circuit.

Can there be multiple independent loops in a circuit?

Yes, there can be multiple independent loops in a circuit. In fact, most circuits will have more than one independent loop. It is important to identify all the independent loops in a circuit in order to fully understand its behavior and analyze its functioning.

Similar threads

Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
8
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
11
Views
4K
Replies
5
Views
2K
Back
Top