Saturday, May 24, 2008

MP8-2: Problem 31.65



This one just needs a simple application of both Kirchhoff's loop law and junction law.

The first thing I did was figure out an equation for R_eq (R_ef) for the circuit using what we know about parallel resistors.

Using the junction law, you can easily find the current through the resistor by subtracting the ammeter's max from the current going into the circuit.

Then use the loop law to set V_A = V_R (V=IR) and solve for R_R.

Plugging that into your R_ef gives you a surprisingly pretty number if you use 2nd+ANS (for the full, non-rounded value) on your TI calculator. Or at least for these values, it did.

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