Solving circuits using mesh analysis

[jeromec92]

Hi guys,
is there anyway i can solve the voltage across the current source using Mesh Analysis. I already solved for the voltage across the current source using Nodal analysis. And btw, do you have any tips which technique is the best to use (Kirchoff's, Mesh, Nodal analysis) for different kinds of circuits. Thanks.

-Jerome

 

[gneill]

Hi guys,
is there anyway i can solve the voltage across the current source using Mesh Analysis. I already solved for the voltage across the current source using Nodal analysis. And btw, do you have any tips which technique is the best to use (Kirchoff's, Mesh, Nodal analysis) for different kinds of circuits. Thanks.

-Jerome

Regarding solution methods, different circuits will "appeal" to you in different ways. Much depends upon how many techniques you are familiar with and your comfort level with each.

Sure you can use mesh analysis for this problem. Assume that the loop contained the current source is an already "solved" mesh that you don't have to worry about other than to include its "mesh" current (4A) in the current passing through R1 when you write the loop equations for the other loops. That is, there will be a "R1*(I2 - I1)" term for the middle loop.

Another approach that occurs to me is to convert I1 and R1 into a Thevenin equivalent voltage source and series resistance, leaving you two "standard" loops for mesh analysis. Remember that the voltage across R1 (and so the current source) in the original circuit is then equivalent to the voltage across the Thevenin voltage and its resistor.

 

[jeromec92]

Regarding solution methods, different circuits will "appeal" to you in different ways. Much depends upon how many techniques you are familiar with and your comfort level with each.

Sure you can use mesh analysis for this problem. Assume that the loop contained the current source is an already "solved" mesh that you don't have to worry about other than to include its "mesh" current (4A) in the current passing through R1 when you write the loop equations for the other loops. That is, there will be a "R1*(I2 - I1)" term for the middle loop.

Another approach that occurs to me is to convert I1 and R1 into a Thevenin equivalent voltage source and series resistance, leaving you two "standard" loops for mesh analysis. Remember that the voltage across R1 (and so the current source) in the original circuit is then equivalent to the voltage across the Thevenin voltage and its resistor.

Hello, Thank you very much. I finally got it! Anyway I prefer using nodal analysis rather than mesh and kirchoff's. What do you think?

 

[gneill]

Hello, Thank you very much. I finally got it! Anyway I prefer using nodal analysis rather than mesh and kirchoff's. What do you think?

I think you should use what works for you, but having more than one tool in your toolbox will make your life easier

 

[DeeNos]

Hello Jerome,

Yes, it is possible to solve for the voltage across a current source using Mesh Analysis. In fact, Mesh Analysis is a commonly used technique for solving circuits, especially those with multiple current sources.

In terms of which technique is best to use, it really depends on the specific circuit and your personal preference. Kirchoff's Laws, Mesh Analysis, and Nodal Analysis are all valid methods for solving circuits, but some may be more efficient for certain types of circuits. For example, Mesh Analysis is often used for circuits with multiple current sources, while Nodal Analysis may be better suited for circuits with multiple voltage sources.

My advice would be to familiarize yourself with all three techniques and practice using them on different types of circuits. This will help you determine which method works best for you in different scenarios. Remember, the most important thing is to accurately solve the circuit and reach the correct results.

Best of luck with your circuit analysis endeavors!

Sincerely,