For the resistor network shown, R1 = 4 Ω, R2 = 4 Ω and R3 = 5 Ω.   Find the equivalent resistance from a to c.  Give your answer in ohms.

College Physics
11th Edition
ISBN:9781305952300
Author:Raymond A. Serway, Chris Vuille
Publisher:Raymond A. Serway, Chris Vuille
Chapter1: Units, Trigonometry. And Vectors
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 1CQ: Estimate the order of magnitude of the length, in meters, of each of the following; (a) a mouse, (b)...
icon
Related questions
Question

For the resistor network shown, R1 = 4 Ω, R2 = 4 Ω and R3 = 5 Ω.   Find the equivalent resistance from a to c.  Give your answer in ohms.

The image depicts a Wheatstone Bridge circuit, which is a fundamental electrical circuit used to measure an unknown electrical resistance by balancing two legs of a bridge circuit.

**Components and Labels:**
- The circuit consists of four resistors: two labeled as \( R_1 \), one as \( R_2 \), and one as \( R_3 \).
- Points \( a \), \( b \), and \( c \) are the junctions connecting these resistors.

**Resistor Arrangement:**
- Resistors \( R_1 \) are placed on the opposite sides of the bridge, creating the diagonal paths of the diamond shape.
- Resistor \( R_2 \) connects the midpoint of the two diagonals.
- Resistors \( R_3 \) are also placed symmetrically, completing the other sides of the diamond.

**Functionality:**
- The bridge is said to be "balanced" when the ratio of the resistances on one side of the bridge is equal to the ratio on the other side, i.e., \((R_1 / R_2) = (R_3 / R_1)\).
- When balanced, no current flows through the bridge, meaning that unknown resistances can be calculated based on the known resistances.

This circuit is commonly used in laboratories to precisely measure resistances, calibrate measuring instruments, and in various electronic applications.
Transcribed Image Text:The image depicts a Wheatstone Bridge circuit, which is a fundamental electrical circuit used to measure an unknown electrical resistance by balancing two legs of a bridge circuit. **Components and Labels:** - The circuit consists of four resistors: two labeled as \( R_1 \), one as \( R_2 \), and one as \( R_3 \). - Points \( a \), \( b \), and \( c \) are the junctions connecting these resistors. **Resistor Arrangement:** - Resistors \( R_1 \) are placed on the opposite sides of the bridge, creating the diagonal paths of the diamond shape. - Resistor \( R_2 \) connects the midpoint of the two diagonals. - Resistors \( R_3 \) are also placed symmetrically, completing the other sides of the diamond. **Functionality:** - The bridge is said to be "balanced" when the ratio of the resistances on one side of the bridge is equal to the ratio on the other side, i.e., \((R_1 / R_2) = (R_3 / R_1)\). - When balanced, no current flows through the bridge, meaning that unknown resistances can be calculated based on the known resistances. This circuit is commonly used in laboratories to precisely measure resistances, calibrate measuring instruments, and in various electronic applications.
Expert Solution
Step 1

Here, both the resistors R1 are in series, and the resistors R2 and R3 (between ab, and cb) are in parallel. Determine the equivalent resistance of both the resistors R1, and equivalent resistance of the resistors R2 and R3 (between ab, and cb), respectively, as follows.

Req,1=R1+R1=4 Ω+4 Ω=8 ΩReq,2=R2R3R2+R3=4 Ω5 Ω4 Ω+5 Ω=2.2222 Ω

steps

Step by step

Solved in 2 steps

Blurred answer
Knowledge Booster
DC circuits
Learn more about
Need a deep-dive on the concept behind this application? Look no further. Learn more about this topic, physics and related others by exploring similar questions and additional content below.
Similar questions
Recommended textbooks for you
College Physics
College Physics
Physics
ISBN:
9781305952300
Author:
Raymond A. Serway, Chris Vuille
Publisher:
Cengage Learning
University Physics (14th Edition)
University Physics (14th Edition)
Physics
ISBN:
9780133969290
Author:
Hugh D. Young, Roger A. Freedman
Publisher:
PEARSON
Introduction To Quantum Mechanics
Introduction To Quantum Mechanics
Physics
ISBN:
9781107189638
Author:
Griffiths, David J., Schroeter, Darrell F.
Publisher:
Cambridge University Press
Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Physics
ISBN:
9781337553278
Author:
Raymond A. Serway, John W. Jewett
Publisher:
Cengage Learning
Lecture- Tutorials for Introductory Astronomy
Lecture- Tutorials for Introductory Astronomy
Physics
ISBN:
9780321820464
Author:
Edward E. Prather, Tim P. Slater, Jeff P. Adams, Gina Brissenden
Publisher:
Addison-Wesley
College Physics: A Strategic Approach (4th Editio…
College Physics: A Strategic Approach (4th Editio…
Physics
ISBN:
9780134609034
Author:
Randall D. Knight (Professor Emeritus), Brian Jones, Stuart Field
Publisher:
PEARSON