- #1
influx
- 164
- 2
Can someone explain (in terms of the voltage and current if possible), why R3 and R2 are in parallel and why R1 and R3 are in series?
Thanks
Thevenin Circuit: Understanding Parallel and Series Paths in Resistors
In summary, R3 and R2 are in parallel because there is a path for current to flow from one end of R3 to the other end without passing through R2. R1 and R3 are not necessarily in series, but they could be if all the current passing through R1 also passes through R3.
Can someone explain (in terms of the voltage and current if possible), why R3 and R2 are in parallel and why R1 and R3 are in series?
Thanks
- #2
NascentOxygen
Staff Emeritus
Science Advisor
- 9,242
- 1,075
Hi influx. It is not really correct to state anyone of these resistors to be in series with another one here.
It often is clearer if you think in terms of parallel and series paths. If you can find a route that allows current to flow from one end of a resistor to the [node at the] other end of that resistor, and without passing through that resistor, you have found a parallel path.
If all current that passes through a particular resistor must also pass through another resistor (and vice-versa) then those two resistors are in series.
It often is clearer if you think in terms of parallel and series paths. If you can find a route that allows current to flow from one end of a resistor to the [node at the] other end of that resistor, and without passing through that resistor, you have found a parallel path.
If all current that passes through a particular resistor must also pass through another resistor (and vice-versa) then those two resistors are in series.
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FAQ: Thevenin Circuit: Understanding Parallel and Series Paths in Resistors
What is a Thevenin circuit?
A Thevenin circuit is a simplified representation of a complex circuit that contains a voltage source, a series resistance, and a load resistance. It is used to analyze and predict the behavior of a circuit.
How do you find the Thevenin equivalent circuit?
To find the Thevenin equivalent circuit, you need to follow these steps:
- Disconnect all the loads from the circuit.
- Calculate the open-circuit voltage by removing the load and measuring the voltage across its terminals.
- Calculate the Thevenin resistance by removing the voltage source and measuring the resistance across the terminals.
- Reconnect the load and use the calculated values to create the Thevenin equivalent circuit.
What is the purpose of a Thevenin circuit?
The purpose of a Thevenin circuit is to simplify a complex circuit and make it easier to analyze. It allows us to predict the behavior of a circuit and make calculations without having to deal with all the complexities of the original circuit.
What are the limitations of a Thevenin circuit?
The Thevenin circuit assumes that the circuit is linear and that the load is connected to the same terminals as the Thevenin voltage source. It also assumes that there are only two terminals in the circuit. These assumptions may not hold true in all cases, and therefore, the Thevenin circuit may not accurately represent the behavior of the original circuit.
How is a Thevenin circuit different from a Norton circuit?
A Norton circuit is another simplified representation of a complex circuit, but instead of using a voltage source, it uses a current source. The Norton equivalent circuit also has a parallel resistance instead of a series resistance like the Thevenin circuit. However, both circuits can be used interchangeably in many cases.
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