- #1
In summary, this person is confused on how to find the current if only the resistence and total voltage is given. They are also confused on how to identify when something is a series or parallel when both are in a circuit together.
- #2
max1020
- 45
- 0
is I1 and I3 .22A too because 0.22+0.22+0.22=0.65
- #3
- #4
cpscdave
- 403
- 120
max1020 said:
Well the answer here is you have both :) R1 and R2 are in SERIES with one another and they are then in PARALLEL with R3.
Have you learned how to do voltage dividers and current dividers?
A method to solve simple problems like this is to simplify first then solve.
1) take the series resistors and make them into one (eg R4 = R1+R2)
2) take the parallel resistors and make them into one (eg 1/R5 = 1/R4 + 1/R3)
now you are left with a voltage source and a resistor. You can figure out I from I=V/R
Next you have to do the fun part.
Use a current divider equation to figure out the current through R4 and R3
Then use a Voltage divider to figure out the voltage drop across R1 and R2.
One thing I found extremely helpful which I'm all hesitant to post is this link http://www.falstad.com/circuit/
its an online circuit simulator. I strongly suggest you use only to verify your answers and if you find your answer is wrong you can verify your steps (eg build the original circuit and the circuit after step 2 and check the currents and voltages still line up). I know people who used this tool to solve all their assignments and ended up failing the course cause they couldn't do the work on the exam.
- #5
HalfLostAndSearching
- 1,008
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I would recommend double-checking your calculations and using Ohm's Law to ensure accuracy in finding the current in a circuit. Ohm's Law states that current (I) is equal to the voltage (V) divided by the resistance (R). So, to find the current in a circuit, you would need to know the voltage and the resistance. You can measure the voltage with a voltmeter and calculate the resistance by using the formula R=V/I, where V is the voltage and I is the current. Once you have both values, you can use Ohm's Law to calculate the current. It may also be helpful to draw a circuit diagram and label all the components to better understand the flow of current in the circuit. Additionally, it is important to note the units of measurement for voltage and resistance (volts and ohms, respectively) to ensure correct calculations. I hope this helps and good luck with your circuit analysis!
FAQ: How do i find the current in this circuit?
How do I calculate the current in a circuit?
To calculate the current in a circuit, you can use Ohm's Law which states that current (I) is equal to voltage (V) divided by resistance (R). This can be represented by the formula I = V/R. You can also use Kirchhoff's Current Law which states that the sum of all currents entering a node in a circuit must equal the sum of all currents leaving that node.
What is the difference between AC and DC current?
AC (alternating current) is a type of electrical current where the direction of flow continuously changes. It is commonly used in household electricity. DC (direct current) is a type of electrical current where the direction of flow remains constant. It is commonly used in batteries and electronic devices.
How do I measure the current in a circuit?
To measure the current in a circuit, you can use an ammeter which is a device specifically designed for this purpose. The ammeter must be placed in series with the circuit, meaning it is connected in-line with the current flow. Make sure to select an ammeter with a range that can handle the expected current in your circuit.
What factors affect the current in a circuit?
The current in a circuit can be affected by various factors including the voltage source, the resistance of the circuit, and the type of material used in the circuit. Changes in any of these factors can cause the current to increase or decrease.
How does the number of components in a circuit affect the current?
The number of components in a circuit can affect the current in several ways. Adding more components in series will increase the total resistance in the circuit, resulting in a decrease in current. In contrast, adding more components in parallel will decrease the total resistance in the circuit, resulting in an increase in current.