Uploaded October 2021 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
In this video, I use mesh current analysis (aka loop current analysis) to determine the loop currents in an unbalanced bridge circuit. These loop currents can then be used to calculate the voltage across and current through the resistors in the circuit. I go through all the steps, except for solving the simultaneous linear equations that are created from the Kirchoff's Voltage Law (KVL) loops
00:17 - Step 1. Identify current loops and set current direction
01:00 - Step 2. Label voltage polarities on resistors
02:36 - Step 3. Create Kirchoff Voltage Law equations
05:37 - Step 4. Simplify equations and group current terms
08:09 - Step 5. Three equations and three unknowns (I1, I2, and I3). The solving of these equations is saved for some different videos (e.g., youtu.be/LBrCADGywEk)
09:26 - The current values
10:08 - Check results by confirming that VR1+VR4 = 24V
This example problem and circuit come from Lessons in Electric Circuits, Volume 1, by Tony Kuphaldt. It is reused under the conditions of the Design Science License (gnu.org/licenses/dsl.html). These terms and conditions allow for free copying, distribution, and/or modification of this document by the general public. As part of this license, this video uses the same license.
In this video, I use mesh current analysis (aka loop current analysis) to determine the loop currents in an unbalanced bridge circuit. These loop currents can then be used to calculate the voltage across and current through the resistors in the circuit. I go through all the steps, except for solving the simultaneous linear equations that are created from the Kirchoff's Voltage Law (KVL) loops
00:17 - Step 1. Identify current loops and set current direction
01:00 - Step 2. Label voltage polarities on resistors
02:36 - Step 3. Create Kirchoff Voltage Law equations
05:37 - Step 4. Simplify equations and group current terms
08:09 - Step 5. Three equations and three unknowns (I1, I2, and I3). The solving of these equations is saved for some different videos (e.g., youtu.be/LBrCADGywEk)
09:26 - The current values
10:08 - Check results by confirming that VR1+VR4 = 24V
This example problem and circuit come from Lessons in Electric Circuits, Volume 1, by Tony Kuphaldt. It is reused under the conditions of the Design Science License (gnu.org/licenses/dsl.html). These terms and conditions allow for free copying, distribution, and/or modification of this document by the general public. As part of this license, this video uses the same license.
