Chapter 1: DC Circuits

CHAPTER 1
DC CIRCUITS

1.1 Introduction
Electricity is a naturally occurring energy that exist in nature. Humans have been conscious of
this energy since years. It is an expedient form of energy which has numerous applications.
Today, it is difficult to think of human civilization without electricity. It is considered as the
backbone of the economic development of the country.
To understand the flow of electrical energy, it is necessary to have a basic knowledge of the
various elements through which it flows. The electrical elements we come across are voltage
sources, current sources, resistor, inductor, and capacitors. The path of energy flow is called
electrical circuit. Based on the elements in the circuits, an electrical circuit can transmit,
convert, absorb, and store energy.
Electrical elements are basically classified in to two types of passive elements and active
elements. The passive elements are resistors, capacitors, and inductors. The active elements are
sources (or Driving forces). The sources or excitation are of two types: independent sources
and controlled sources.
An electric network is defined as an interconnection of two or more circuit elements such as
sources, resistors, inductors, and capacitors. If a network contains at least one closed path, it is
called as an electric circuit. For better understanding electric circuit consider a water flowing
through a pipe. The flow of water through a pipe is like the flow of charge through wires. It is
necessary to have maintain potential difference between two points for transmitting water from
one end to another end. Similarly, in an electric circuit for transmitting current from one end
to another potential difference between two ends is necessary. If a pipe breaks, water cannot
reach the destination point. Similarly, if a circuit opens, there will not be any flow of charge.
Further, it is important that all connections are made with possible charge carriers.

Electrical quantities

The value of a parameters characterizes the relationship between two variables. In electrical
terms a parameter is usually regraded as a circuit characteristic which defines circuits behavior.
Electric circuit is made up of electrical elements. These electrical elements are classified as
follows.
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

Electric field
In physics, the space surrounding an electric charge, or in the presence of a time-varying, has
a property called an electric field. This electric field exerts a force on other electrically charged
objects.
Electric current
In all semiconductors and conductive materials, free electrons are present. These free electrons
move at random in all directions within the structure in the absence of external pressure of
voltage. If a certain amount of voltage is applied, then all the free electrons will move in one
direction depending on the polarity of the applied voltage. This movement of electrons from
one end of the materials to other end is known as electric current, which is denoted by I or I.
Potential Difference
According to the structure of an atom, there are two types of charges -positive and negative. A
force of attraction exists between these charges. A certain amount of energy is required to
overcome that force and move the charge through a specific distance. All opposite charges
possess a certain amount of potential energy because of the separation between them. Electric
potential is the amount of electric potential energy per unit of charge that would be possessed
by a charged object if placed within an electric field at a given location.
Electromotive force
Electromotive force(emf) represents the electric pressure or potential difference between two
ends of a conductor that tends to create electrons flow.
Electromotive force can be developed in battery or in a generator.
Work, power, and Energy
Work
Electrical work refers to the work which is done on an electronically charged particle by an
electric field. This form of energy is expressed on similar lines to the mechanical work that is
done by a force. The basic equation for work done due to an electric field is
𝑊 = 𝑞 ∫ 𝐸 𝑑𝑟
Where q is the charge of the particle, E the strength of the electric field, and dr the distance
involved in the extension of the electric field.
Power
Power is defined as the rate at which electrical energy is transferred by the circuits or as the
rate of doing work. The symbol for power is P. The unit of electric power is defined in terms
joule pers second. One joule per second is the work done when one coulomb of electricity is
moved through a potential difference of one volt in one second.
The power in an electric circuit is
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

𝑑𝑊
𝑃=
𝑑𝑡
The above equation can be written as

𝑑𝑊 𝑑𝑊 𝑑𝑞
= 𝑑𝑞 × 𝑑𝑡
𝑑𝑡

Therefore
P=V×I
Hence power is the product of voltage and current
Energy
Electrical energy is defined as the total amount of electrical work done in an electric circuit.
The unit of energy is joules or watts-second.
Electrical Energy, E=Power(P) × Time(t)
Basic circuit elements
Resistor
As its name suggests, a resistor resists or opposes the flow of current through it. Resistance in
a circuit is the parameters that dissipates energy.
The symbol for resistor is R and the unis ohm
Inductor
A wire of certain length, when twisted into a coil becomes a basic inductor. When the current
is passed through an inductor an electromagnetic field is formed. A change in the magnitude
of the current changes the current electromagnetic field. i.e., increase in current increases the
field and decreases in current reduces the field. Therefore, a change in the current produces a
change in the electromagnetic field, which induces a voltage across the coil according to
Faradays law of electromagnetic induction. The practical units L is henry or H.
Capacitors
A capacitor is a device that can store charge. It consists of two conducting surfaces separated
by an isolating material. The conducting surface is called plates of capacitors and the insulating
materials is called dielectric, for instance, air, and mica.
DC Circuits:
An electrical circuit consists of one or more sources of energy and more number of basic
elements such as resistors, inductors, and capacitors. These elements and sources may be
connected in a desired manner. The interconnection of such elements gives rise to complexity.
To find the current flowing through various elements in the network, and to find the voltage
across the elements the circuit must be solved. To solve such circuits, various techniques have
been proposed in this chapter.
The following laws and technique are emphasized in this chapter:
1. Ohm's Law
2. Kirchhoff's Law
3. Parallel and series circuit combination
4. Energy sources
5. Power and energy concepts

The study of two basic laws governing dc electricity, which is Ohm's Law and Kirchhoff's Law
(Current Law and Voltage Law), is essential.

1.2 Ohm's Law

Chapter 1: DC Circuits

This is the most fundamental law in electrical engineering. George Simon

Ohm, in 1827 discovered Ohm's law.

Statement: The potential difference between the two ends of a conductor

(a and b) is directly proportional to the current flowing through it, provided
its temperature and other physical parameters remain unchanged.

VαI (1.1)

Fig. 1.1: Resistance representation

The proportionality constant is 'R', which is the resistance of the conductor,

and the unit is ohm (Ω).

V = IR (1.2)

This law holds good for both AC & DC circuits.

An alternate way of stating Ohm's law: The current flowing through a

conductor is directly proportional to the potential difference between the
two ends of the conductor.

IαV
I = GV (1.3)
where G is the conductance of the conductor and its unit is siemen(S).

1
G= (1.4)
R
1
Equation 1.1 represents a straight line with a slope ( ) . This can be
R
graphically represented in Fig. 1.2.
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

Fig. 1.2: Graphical Representation of Ohm's Law

Limitations of Ohm's law

1. Ohm's law is not applicable for non-linear devices such as diodes,
Zener diodes, voltage regulators, etc.
2. Ohm's law is not satisfied by non-metallic conductors like silicon
carbide, whose V-I relation is given by:
V = C*In (1.5)
where C & n are constants.
3. Some devices like arc lamps have non-linear characteristics; hence
ohm's law does not hold good for them.
4. If there are any fluctuations in temperature or other physical
parameters, then ohm's law fails for such elements.

1.3 Kirchhoff's laws

Gustav Robert Kirchhoff (1824-1887), a German physicist, has defined two
fundamental principles that can be used to define circuit equations. These
laws depend on the topology of the circuit & not on the characteristics of
the elements of the circuit. The two laws are (i) Kirchhoff’s current law
(KCL) and (ii) Kirchhoff’s voltage law (KVL)

1.3.1 Kirchhoff’s Current Law (KCL)

Statement: At any node or junction of an electric network, the algebraic
sum of all the currents is equal to zero.

(1.6)
where P is the number of branches meeting at a junction.

It can alternately be stated as,

Chapter 1: DC Circuits

At any node or junction of an electric network, the algebraic sum of currents

entering the node is equal to the sum of currents leaving the node.

Consider a node `O' as shown in Fig. 1.3, which has few branches connected
to it and I1, I2, I3, I4, I5 represent the branch currents. By convention, the
currents entering the junction is considered positive, and the currents
leaving the junction is considered negative. Thus, according to KCL, we
have

I 1 + I2 – I 3 + I 4 + I 5 = 0
I 1 + I2 + I 4 + I 5 = I 3 (1.7)

Fig. 1.3: Kirchhoff's Current Law illustration

1.3.2 Kirchhoff’s Voltage Law (KVL)

Statement: Around any closed path of an electric network, the algebraic
sum of all the voltages (potential rise and drops) is equal to zero.

(1.8)

Sign Convention: Consider a battery 'E' connected between a and b as

shown in the Fig.1.4
- +

Fig. 1.4: Battery symbol

1. The rise in voltage is considered positive, and the fall in voltage is
considered negative. The voltage from a to b is a rise in voltage; hence it
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

is positive similarly voltage from b to a is fall in voltage; hence it is

negative.

2. When current flows through a resistance, the voltage drop occurs across
the resistance. The current always flows from higher potential to lower
potential. Hence the sign convention for the flow of current through
resistance R is as shown in Fig. 1.5.

Fig. 1.5: Resistance

3. If the voltage is along the direction of the current, then there is a voltage
drop; hence (IR) drop will be negative.
+ - + -

+ +

-
- -

Fig. 1.6: KVL Example

Consider a circuit as an example, as shown in Fig 1.6, The directions of

currents I1, I2, I3 are assumed.
The KVL equation for loop abcda: E1 – I1R1 – I2R2 = 0 and
for loop dcefd: I2 R2 – I3 R3 – E2 = 0

1.4 Resistance
Consider a conductor of length 'L' in units of (meter) 'm’, having an area of
cross-section ‘A’ in units of m2 connected across a dc voltage source of E
volts because of which a current of I ampere flow through it as shown in
Fig.1.7. The resistance of the conductor is given as:
L
R=ρ (1.9)
A

Where, ρ is the resistivity of the conductor in ohm – meter (Ωm)

Chapter 1: DC Circuits

Fig. 1.7: Resistivity Illustration

Series Circuits (Series Combination of resistances)

Two or more resistances are said to be connected in series if the same

current flows through them. Consider three resistances, R1, R2 and R3,
connected across dc voltage source of 'V' volts as shown in Fig.1.8, ths
results in a current of ‘I’ amperes flow through the circuit:

Fig. 1.8: Series Circuit Illustration

According to ohm’s law, we have

V1= IR1
V2 = IR2 (1.10)
V3= IR3
where V1, V2 and V3 are the voltage drops across R1, R2 and R3, respectively.
The overall voltage drop V is given by
V = IReq (1.11)
where Req is the equivalent resistance
But, V = V1+ V2+ V3 (1.12)
Substitute equation (1.10) in (1.12)

V = IR1+ IR2+ IR3

= I[R1+ R2 +R3] (1.13)
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

Comparing equation (1.11) with (1.13), we get

Req = R1 + R2 + R3 (1.14)
Thus, for a series circuit, the equivalent resistance of a number of resistances
connected in series is equal to the sum of individual resistances.

1.5 Parallel circuits (Parallel combination of resistances)

Consider three resistances R1, R2 & R3 connected in parallel across a DC
voltage source of V volt. A current I amperes flows through this circuit. The
voltage drop and the current through each branch are as shown in Fig. 1.9.

Total current is given by: I = I1 + I2 + I3

V V V V
From ohm′s Law: = + +
Req R1 R2 R3

1 1 1 1
∴ = + + (1.15)
Req R1 R2 R3

Fig. 1.9: Parallel Circuit Illustration

The reciprocal of equivalent resistance is equal to the sum of the reciprocal

of individual resistances. If two resistances are connected in parallel, the
equivalent resistance is given by:
R R
Req = 1 2
R1 + R2

Current Divider Rule

Chapter 1: DC Circuits

Fig. 1.10: Current Divider Rule Illustration

Consider the circuit shown in Fig1.10; it consists of two resistances R 1 and

R2, connected in parallel.
From ohm’s law:
V = I1R1 = I2R2

I1 R1
I2 =
R2

I1 R1 R1 +R2
I = I1 + I2 = I1 + =I1 [ ]
R2 R2

IR2
∴ I1 =
R1 +R2

IR1
I2 =
R1 +R2

Note: Current through any branch is equal to the product of total current
and resistance of other branch divided by the sum of resistances connected
in parallel.

Voltage Divider Rule

Consider the circuit shown in Fig 1.11; it consists of two resistances R1 and
R2, connected in series. From ohm’s law, the total current is given by

Fig. 1.11: Voltage Divider Rule Illustration

V
I=
R1 +R2
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

R1
V1 = IR1 =V.
R1 +R2
R2
V2 = IR2 = V.
R 1 +R 2

Note: Voltage across one resistance is equal to the product of total voltage
and same resistance divided by the sum of resistances connected in series.

1.6 Analysis of Electric Circuits

Electric circuits can be analyzed using any of the following methods:

1. Branch current method
2. Mesh current method
3. Node voltage method

1.6.1 Branch current method:

Consider a circuit as an example, as shown in Fig 1.12,

The directions of currents I1, I2, I3 are assumed.
The KVL equations are written for loop abcda and for loop dcefd
E1 – I1R1 – I2R2 = 0 and
I2 R2 – I3 R3 – E2 = 0

Fig. 1.12 Branch Current Method illustrations

1.6.2 Mesh current method: A mesh is a closed loop where current flows.
Consider an electric circuit as shown in Fig. 1.13
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

Fig. 1.13 An Electric Circuit

Step 1: Identify the number loops in the given circuit. The given circuit has
2 loops.
Step2: Now loop currents are assigned and current directions and voltage
polarities are marked as shown in the Fig. 1.14

Fig. 1.14

The loop currents I1 and I2 are assumed in clockwise direction

Step 3: Each loop is considered separately and KVL equations are written
KVL for mesh – 1 is Vs – I1 R1 – (I1 – I2) R2 = 0
KVL for mesh – 2 is –(I2 –I1) R2 – I2R3 = 0
Thus there are two equations and they can be solved to obtain loop
currents I1andI2
I1(R1 + R2) – I2 R2 = Vs
–I1R2 + I2 (R2 + R3) = 0

Example:
Find the current through 4Ω in the circuit shown in the Fig. 1.15
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

Fig. 1.15
Solution:
For loop – 1
15 – 10 I1 – 5 (I1 – I2) = 0
15I1 – 5I2 = 15
3I1 – I2 = 3 (1)
For loop – 2
–5(I2 – I1) –4I2 – 9 = 0
– 5I1 + 9I2 = –9 (2)

Solving equation (1) and (2)

I1 = 0.82A and I2 = –0.54A

Therefore, the current through 4Ω is I2 = –0.54A

Negative sign indicates that the actual direction of current I 2 is opposite to

the assumed direction.

1.6.3 Node Voltage Method: A node is a point where two or more electric
components meet, or a node is a point where two or more branches meet.
Consider an electric circuit as shown in Fig. 1.16.

Fig. 1.16 Node Voltage Analysis illustration

Chapter 1: DC Circuits

Step 1: All the nodes of the circuit are identified then a reference node is
selected which is usually a point where large number of elements is
connected. In the circuit shown in the Fig. 1.17, there are 4 nodes and they
are named as a, b, c, d

Fig. 1.17
Step 2: Respective node voltages are assigned as Va, Vb,Vc, and Vd.
Step 3: Arbitrarily polarities and currents are assigned to the circuit. As
shown in the Fig. 1.18

Fig. 1.18

Here reference node is‘d’ and is assigned 0V and is grounded.

Step 4: KCL is applied at all nodes to determine node voltages for node a,
Va = Vs1
Also Vc = Vs2

Applying KCL at node b we get

i1 – i2 + i3 = 0
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

The currents can be expressed in terms of node voltages using ohm’s law
as
Va -Vb VS1 -Vb
i1 = =
R1 R1

Vb -Vd Vb
i2 = = [as, Vd =0]
R2 R2

Vc −Vb Vs2 −Vb

i3 = =
R3 R3
From eqn. (1)
Vs1 -Vb Vb Vs2 -Vb
- + =0
R1 R2 R3
Thus from above equation Vb can be solved and branch currents can be
obtained

Numerical Problems
1. A resistor of 12 Ω is connected in series with a combination of 15 Ω
and 20 Ω resistors in parallel. A voltage of 120 V is applied across the
whole circuit. Find (i) current taken from the supply (ii) voltage across
the 12 Ω resistor.

Solution:

Fig. 1.19

(i) Total resistance of the parallel branch is

15×20 300
RP = = = 8.57Ω
15+20 35
Series Resistance
RS =12Ω
∴ Total circuit resistance
RT = RP + RS = 12+8.57 = 20.57Ω
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

120
Current from supply: I= = 5.833A
20.57
(ii) Voltage across 12Ω resistor:
V12Ω = RS× I=12× 5.83 = 70 V

2. A current of 20A flows through 2 ammeters A & B in series. The

potential difference across A is 0.2V & across B is 0.3V. Find how the
same current will divide between A and B when they are in parallel.

Solution:

Fig.1.20 Fig.1.21

From fig. (1.20)

I = 20 A
VA = 0.2 V = I*RA RA = 0.01Ω
VB = 0.3 V = I*RB RB = 0.015Ω

RB
From fig. (1.21) IA = I[ ] = 12A
RA +RB
IB = 8A.

3. Find the current through 4Ω in the circuit shown in Fig. 1.22.

Fig.1.22
Solution:

From loop 1: 15 -10I1 -5(I1 – I2) = 0

Chapter 1: DC Circuits

15I1-5I2=15 (1)
or 3I1 - I2 = 3

From loop 2: +5 [I2 – I1] - 4I2 – 9 = 0

or -5I1 + I2 = 9 (2)
From equation (1) & (2)
I1= -6 A
I2= -21 A

Negative sign for currents indicates, that the actual current direction is
opposite to the assumed direction.

4. Find the current in all branches of the network shown in Fig. 1.23

Fig .1.23
Solution:
Let the current through the branch AB be I amps. Now apply KCL to the
various nodes of the network and mark the currents flowing through each
branch as shown in the Fig. 1.24;

Fig. 1.24
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

Applying KVL to the loop ABCDEFA, we get

-0.02I - 0.01[I – 60] - 0.03I - 0.01 [I – 120] - 0.01 [I – 50] - 0.02 [I –

80] = 0
I[0.02 + 0.01 + 0.03 + 0.01 + 0.01 + 0.02] = 0.6 + 1.2 + 0.5 + 1.6
I = 39 A

Branch Current Direction

From A to
AB 39 A
B
BC -21 A From C to B
From C to
CD 39 A
D
DE -81 A From E to D
EF -11 A From F to E
FA -41 A From A to F

5. What is the difference of potential between the points X and Y in the

network shown?

Fig .1.25
Solution:
Consider the loop including AX branch, Total resistance = 2 Ω + 3 Ω =
5Ω

2
Current through AX branch (as indicated) I1= = 0.4 A [from A to X]
5

Consider the other loop, Total resistance = 5 Ω + 3 Ω = 8 Ω

4
Current through ZY branch (as indicated) I2 = = 0.5 A [from Z to Y]
8

Drop across 3 Ω resistor (branch AX) = I1* 3 = 0.4 × 3 = 1.2 V

Chapter 1: DC Circuits

Drop across 3 Ω resistor (branch ZY) = I2* 3 = 0.5 × 3 = 1.5 V

VX + I1* 3 + 4 - I2* 3 - VY = 0

Drop between X & Y = VXY = -3.7 V

6. Find the current flowing through the galvanometer G in the wheat

stone bridge network shown in the Fig. 1.26. (Assume resistance of the
galvanometer is RG = 50Ω)

Fig. 1.26
Solution:
Consider the loop abda
-25I1 – 50I3 + 20I2 = 0
- 5I1 +4I2 - 10I3 = 0 (1)
Consider the loop bcdb
-10(I1 –I3) + 15(I2 + I3) + 50I3 = 0
(2)
-2I1 + 3I2 + 15I3 = 0
Consider the loop adca
⟹ - 20I2 – 15 (I2 + I3) + 25 = 0
⟹ 0I1 – 35I2 – 15I3 = -25 (3)
Solving, equations (1), (2) and (3)
I1 = 0.6988A, I2 = 0.7376A and I3 = - 0.0543A

7. Two storage batteries A & B connected in parallel to supply a load of

0.3Ω. The open circuit e.m.f of B1 is 11.7V & that of B2 is 12.3V. The
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

internal resistances are 0.06Ω & 0.05Ω respectively. Find the current
supplied to the load.

Solution :
Let the currents supplied by the batteries be I1& I2 respectively. The
current through the load, I = I1 + I2 as shown in Fig. 1.27.

Fig .1.27

Applying KVL to loops ABCDA & ABFGA we have

Consider ABCDA loop
+ 0.06 I1 – 11.7 + 12.3 – 0.05I2 = 0
0.06I1 – 0.05I2 = - 0.6 (1)
Consider ABFGA loop
+ 0.06I1 – 11.7 + 0.3 (I1 + I2) = 0
(2)
0.36I1 + 0.3I2 = 11.7
Solving (1) (2), we get
I1 =11.25A, I2 = 25.5A
Current supplied by the load I1 + I2 = I = 36.75A

8. Find the equivalent resistance between the two points A and B for the
Fig. 1.28.

Fig. 1.28
Solution:
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

Identify combinations of series and parallel resistances. The resistances

5 Ω, 6 Ω, are in series, they will carry the same current. So equivalent
resistance is 5 Ω + 6 Ω = 11 Ω
While the resistances 3 Ω, 4 Ω and 4 Ω are in parallel, as voltage across
them same but current divides.
1 1 1 1 10
∴ The equivalent resistance is, = + + =
R 3 4 4 12

12
∴ R= =1.2Ω
10
(a) (b)

Fig. 1.29(a) & 1.29(b)

In Fig. 1.29(a) , 1.2 Ω and 2 Ω are in series, so equivalent resistance is 2Ω

+ 1.2 Ω = 3.2 Ω while 11 Ω and 7 Ω are in parallel, the equivalent resistance
11×7 77
is = =4.277Ω.
11+7 18

Replacing the respective combinations redraw the circuit as in,

Fig. 1.29 (b). Now 3.2 Ω and 4.277 Ω are in parallel.

3.2×4.277
∴ Replacing them by = 1.8304 Ω
3.2+ 4.277

∴ RAB = 1+1.8304 = 2.8304 Ω

9. Find the voltage across the three resistances shown in the Fig. 1.30.

Fig. 1.30
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

Solution: From the Fig. 1.30,

V
I=
R1 +R2 +R3

60
I = =1A
10+20+30
V×R1
∴ VR1 =IR1 = =1×10=10 V
R1 +R2 +R3

V×R2
∴ VR2 =IR2 = =1×20=20V
R1 + R2 +R3
And
V×R3
∴VR3 =IR3 = =1×30=30V
R1 +R2 +R3

10. Find the magnitude of the total current, the current through 𝑅1 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑅2
if, R1 = 10 Ω , R 2 = 20 Ω , and V= 50 V for the circuit shown in the
Fig. 1.31

Fig. 1.31
Solution:
The equivalent resistance of two resistances in parallel is,

R1 R2 10 × 20
Req = = = 6.67 Ω
R1 + R2 10 + 20

V 50
∴ IT = = =7.5 A
Req 6.67
As per the current division rule, in a parallel circuit,

R2 20
I1 = IT ( ) =7.5× ( )
R1 + R2 10 + 20
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

I1 = 5 A
and using KCL, IT = I1 + I2 and I2 = IT - I1 = 7.5 – 5 = 2.5A

11. Find the equivalent resistance between points A-B for the circuit
shown in the Fig. 1.32.

Fig. 1.32

Solution:

The circuit shown in the Fig. 1.32 can be redrawn as Fig. 1.33.

Fig. 1.33
Therefore, the equivalent resistance between points A-B = 8.4 Ω

12. Find the equivalent resistance between points A-B for the circuit
shown in the Fig. 1.34.
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

Fig. 1.34
Solution:

Redraw the circuit as shown in Fig. 1.35,

Fig. 1.35

∴ The equivalent resistance between points A-B = 8.4 Ω

13. Calculate the effective resistance between points A and B for the
circuit shown in the Fig. 1.36.

Fig. 1.36
Solution:
The resistances 2 Ω, 2 Ω and 3 Ω are in series while the resistances 4 Ω,
2 Ω, and 5 Ω are in Series.
∴ 2 Ω +2 Ω +3 Ω = 7 Ω
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

and 4 Ω +2 Ω +5 Ω =11 Ω. Redraw the circuit as, Fig. 1.37

Fig. 1.37
Using star delta transformation, converging Δ PQR to equivalent star,

6 Ω ×3 Ω
RPN = =1.2Ω
6Ω +3Ω +6Ω

6 Ω ×6 Ω
RRN = =2.4Ω
6Ω +3Ω +6Ω

6 Ω ×3 Ω
RQN = =1.2Ω
6 Ω +3 Ω +6 Ω

The circuit can be drawn as shown in the Fig. 1.38,

Fig. 1.38
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

The resistances between AN, 2 Ω and 1.2 Ω are in series, equivalent to

3.2 Ω and between NB 1.2 Ω and 11 Ω are in series, equivalent to 12.2 Ω
and bweteen NB 5 Ω and 2.4 Ω are in series, equivalent to 7.4 Ω.
The circuit can be drawn as shown in the Fig. 1.39,

Fig. 1.39
The resistances 7.4 Ω and 12.2 Ω are in Parallel.

7.4×12.2
∴ 7.4 ∥ 12.2 = = 4.6061 Ω
7.4+12.2

The circuit can be drawn as shown in the Fig. 1.40,

Fig. 1.40
The reistances 3.2 Ω and 4.6061 Ω in Fig. 1.40 are in series, equivalent is,
7.8061 Ω. Redraw the circuit as Fig. 1.33.

Fig. 1.41

The resistances 7 Ω and 7.8061 Ω are in parallel, equivalent RAB is,

7×7.8061
∴ RAB = = 3.69 Ω
7+7.8061
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

14. Determine the current supplied by each battery for the circuit shown,
in the Fig. 1.42 By using Kirchhoff’s laws.

Fig. 1.42

Solution:

Mark the currents through various branches as shown in the Fig. 1.43

Fig. 1.43

Appling KVL to various loops:

For loop 1, ABGHA

-5 I – 3 I1-5+20 = 0
i.e +5 I +3 I1 =15 …(1)

For loop 2, BCFGB

-4 (I-I1)+5-2I2+5+5+3I1 = 0
i.e -4I+7I1-2I2=-15 …(2)

For loop 3, CDEFC

-8 (I-I1-I2)-30-5+2I2 = 0
i.e -8I+8I1 + 10I2 =35 …(3)

Solving (1),(2) and (3) simultaneously

∴ I = 2.558 A, I1 = 0.7357 A, I2 = 4.9581 A

Chapter 1: DC Circuits

Hence the current supplied/drawn by various batteries can be calculated

as below:

Current supplied by B1 = I = 2.558 A

Current drawn by B2 =I1= 0.7357 A
Current supplied by B3 = I2 = 4.9581 A
Current supplied by B4 = (I-I1) = (2.558-0.7357) = 1.8223 A
Current supplied by B5 ,
(I - I1 - I2)= (2.558 - 0.7357 - 4.9581) = - 3.1358 A (negative sign
indicates opposite direction, current is supplied by battery B5 and not
drawn)

15. Using Kirchhoff’s laws, Calculate the current delivered by the battery
for the circuit shown in the Fig. 1.44

Fig. 1.44
Solution:
The various branch currents are as shown in the Fig. 1.45. Applying
KVL to the three loops identified we get,

Fig. 1.45

Consider loop ABEFA,

+5 (I2 – I3) – 4 I3 + 4 (I1 – I3) = 0 i.e 4 I1 + 5 I2 – 13I3 = 0 ….(1)
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

Consider loop BCDEB,

+2I2 – 10 + 4 I1 + 4 I3 = 0 i.e 4 I1 + 2 I2 + 4 I3 = 10 …(2)

Consider loop ABCA,

+5 (I2 – I3) + 2I2 – 3(I1 – I2) = 0 i.e -3I1 + 10I2 - 5I3 = 0 …(3)

Solve for equations, (1), (2) and (3) simultaneously,

I1 = 1.3852 A, I2 = 0.7784 A and I3 = 0.7256 A

The current delivered by the 10V battery is, I1 = 1.3852 A

16. Find the voltages, VCE and VAG for the circuit shown in the Fig. 1.46

Fig. 1.46
Solution:
Assume the two currents as shown in the Fig. 1.47

Fig. 1.47
Applying KVL to the two loops,

-6I1 – 5I1 – 9I1 + 20 = 0 and -8I2 – 5I2 – 7I2 + 40 = 0

∴ I1 = 1 A and I2 = 2 A

i) Trace the path C-E,

VC + 5I1 – 10 + 5I2 – VE = 0
∴ VCE = -5 V
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

or VCE = 5 V (with C negative)

ii) Trace the path A-G,

VA - 6I1 – 10 - 7I2 – VG = 0

∴ VAG= 30 V (with A positive)

17. Two voltmeters A and B, having a resistance of 5.2 kΩ and 15 kΩ

respectively are connected in series across 240 V supply. What is the
reading on each Voltmeter?

Solution :
The circuit for the question can be drawn as Fig. 1.48

Fig. 1.48
∴ Req = RA + RB = 5.2 kΩ + 15 kΩ = 20.2 kΩ
V 240
∴ I= = 3 =0.01188 A
Req 20.2 × 10

According to Ohm’s law, VA = I * RA = 0.01188 * 5.2 * 103

∴ VA = 61.7821 V
and VB = I * RB = 0.01188 * 15 * 103 = 178.2 V

Thus, the reading on voltmeter A is 61.7821 V and that of B is 178.2 V.

18. If the total power dissipated in the circuit shown in the Fig. 1.49 is
18W, find the value of R and current through it.
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

Fig. 1.49
Solution:
The resistances 4 Ω, 16 Ω are in parallel and 8 Ω, RΩ in parallel hence,

4×16 8R
∴ 4 ∥ 16 = =3.2Ω and 8 ∥ R = Ω
4+16 8+R

The circuit can be redrawn as shown in Fig.1.49 (a)

Fig.1.49 (a)
12
IT = 8R
(8+R)+3.2

12(8+𝑅)
∴ IT = …(1)
8𝑅+3.2(8+𝑅)
Given that, the total power dissipated is 18 W.
∴ PT = V x IT i.e 18 = 12×IT
∴ IT = 1.5 A …(2)

12(8+R)
= 1.5 …equating (1) and (2)
8R+3.2(8+R)

∴ 96 + 12R = 12R + 38.4 + 4.8R

∴ R = 12Ω

19. Consider the parallel combination of 8 Ω and R = 12 Ω as shown in the

Fig. 1.50. Find the current through R = 12 Ω.
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

Fig. 1.50

Solution :
Applying current division rule,
8
I12Ω= I2 = IT x( )
8+12

∴ I2 = 0.6 A is the current through R.

20. The current in the 6 Ω resistance of the network shown in the Fig. 1.51
is 2 A. Determine the current in all the other resistances and the supply
Voltage V.

Fig. 1.51
Solution:
The various currents are marked in Fig. 1.52

Fig. 1.52
Now I1 = 2 A (given)
Hence drop across 6 Ω resistance is,
V6Ω= I1 × R = 2 × 6 = 12 V
Now 8 Ω resistance is in parallel with 6 Ω. Hence drop across 8 Ω
is the same as that of 6 Ω.

∴ V8Ω = 12 V

but V8Ω = I2 x 8 i.e 12 = I2 x 8

Chapter 1: DC Circuits

∴ I2 = 1.5 A

Hence total current IT is,

IT = I1 + I2 = 2 + 1.5 = 3.5 A
6×8
Now 6∥8= =3.42857 Ω
6+8

8 × 20
and 8 ∥ 20 = =5.71428 Ω
8 +20

The circuit reduces to Fig. 1.53,

Fig. 1.53

∴ V = IT x RT = 3.5 x 13.14285 = 46 V …Supply voltage

To find the currents I3 and I4, apply current division rule for parallel
circuit,

20 3.5 × 20
∴ I3 =I8Ω = IT x ( )= = 2.5 A
8+20 28

8 3.5 x 8
and I4 = I20Ω= IT x ( )= =1A
8+20 28

21. Two coils are connected in parallel, and a voltage of 200 V is applied
between the terminals. The total current taken is 25 A, and the power
dissipated in one of the resistances is 1500 W. Calculate the resistances of
two coils.

Solution:
The circuit for the given question can be drawn as in Fig. 1.54.
Let power dissipated in resistance R1 be, 1500 W.
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

∴ P1 =I21 R1
∴ 1500 =I21 R1 …(1)

Fig. 1.54
Now the voltage across both the parallel resistances is the same and equal
to a supply voltage of 200 V
∴ V = I1R1 = I2R2

∴ I1R1 =I2R2 = 200 …(2)

Substituting in (1), 1500 = I1.(I1R1) = I1(200)
1500
∴ I1 = = 7.5 A
200

Now 1500 = I21 R1

1500
∴ R1 = = 26.67 Ω
(7.5)2

I T = I 1 + I2

∴ 25 = 7.5 + I2

∴ I2 = 17.5 A

but I2R2 = 200

200
∴ R2 = = 11.43 Ω
17.5

22. Using Kirchhoff's law, find the current flowing the galvanometer G in
the Wheatstone bridge network shown in the Fig. 1.55
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

Fig. 1.55

Solution:
For the circuit diagram given, mark the currents through various branchs
and mark the polarities for the drops across various resistances due to
branch currents.
This is shown in the Fig. 1.56

Fig. 1.56

Apply KVL to the various loops,

Loop abda, -25 I1, -50 I2 + 20(I-I1) = 0
∴ 20 I – 45 I1 – 50 I2 = 0 …(1)

Loop bcdb, -10(I1 – I2) + 15(I - I1 + I2) +50I2 = 0

∴ 15 I – 25 I1 + 75 I2 = 0 …(2)

Loop adca, -20(I – I1) – 15(I –I1 + I2) - 2I + 25 = 0

∴ -37 I + 35I1 – 15 I2 = -25 …(3)

Solve for equations, (1), (2) and (3) simultaneously,

I = 1.288 A, I1 = 0.6267 A and I2 = - 0.04874 A = -48.74 mA

Chapter 1: DC Circuits

∴ I2 = -48.74 mA, is the current through the galvanometer. Negative

sign for the current indicate, that the actual current direction is opposite
to the assumed direction.

23. Find the current supplied by the 7V source for the circuit shown in the
Fig. 1.57

Fig. 1.57
Solution:

For the circuit diagram given, mark the currents through various branches
and mark the polarities for the drops across various resistances due to branch
currents. This is shown in the Fig. 1.58

Fig. 1.58
Apply KVL to the various loops,

Loop abcfha, -3I2 – (I2 – I3) – 5 + 7 = 0

i.e. 0I1– 4I2 + I3 = -2 …(1)

Loop cdefc, -5(I1 – I2) + 3I3 + 3I2 = 0

i.e. – 5I1 + 8I2 +3I3 =0 …(2)

Loop feghf, - 3I3 – 6(I1 – I2 + I3) + 5 + (I2 – I3) = 0

i.e. -6I1 + 7I2 – 14I3 = -5 …(3)
Solve for equations, (1), (2) and (3) simultaneously,

I1 = 1.0027 A, which is the current supplied by the battery 7V.

Chapter 1: DC Circuits

24. Find the equivalent resistance across the terminals PQ of the network,
shown in the Fig. 1.59.

Fig. 1.59

Solution:
Replacing the lowest parallel combination of 100 Ω we get, the circuit as in
Fig. 1.60(a). Further reducing the network with equivalent resistances in
series and parallel we get Fig. 1.60(b) and Fig. 1.60(c)

Fig. 1.60(a)

Fig. 1.60(b)

Fig. 1.60(c)
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

Thus, the equivalent resistance across the terminals PQ of the given

network is RPQ = 100Ω.

25. Find the value of resistance, R and the current flowing through it in the
network shown in the Fig. 1.61. Given that, the current in the branch OA is
zero.

Fig. 1.61

Solution:

For the circuit diagram given, mark the currents through various branches
and mark the polarities for the drops across various resistances due to branch
currents. This is shown in the Fig. 1.62

Fig. 1.62
Loop AOCA -1.5(I1 – I2) + I2R + 0 = 0
∴ - 1.5I1 + I2(1.5 + R) = 0 …(1)

Loop AOBA, 0 + 6I2 -4 (I1 – I2) = 0

∴ - 4I1 + 10I2 = 0 …(2)

Loop BOCB, -6I2 – I2R – 1.5I1 + 10 = 0

∴ - 1.5I1 – I2(6 + R) = -10
…(3)
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

5
From (2), I1 = I2 = 2.5 I2 …(4)
2

Substituting (4) in (1) we get,

-1.5(2.5 I2) + I2(1.5 + R) = 0
∴ -3.75 I2 + I2(1.5 + R) = 0
∴ -3.75 I2 = -I2(1.5 + R)
∴ 1.5 + R = 3.75
∴ R = 2.25 Ω

Substituting ‘R’ value and eqn (4) eqn (3) we get,

-1.5(2.5 I2) – I2(6 + 2.25) = -10
∴ - 12I2 = -10
I2 = 0.833 A …Current through R

26. A network ABCD consists of the following components: AB has a cell

of 2V and negligible resistance, with the positive terminal connected to A;
BC is a resistor of 25 Ω; CD is a resistor of 100 Ω; DA is a battery of 4 V
and negligible resistance with the positive terminal connected to D; AC is a
milliammeter of resistance 10 Ω. Calculate the reading on the milliammeter.

Solution: From the given description the circuit can be drawn as shown in
the Fig. 1.63

Fig. 1.63

Loop ABCA, -2+ 25 I1 + 10I2 = 0

∴ 25I1 + 10 I2 = 2 …(1)

Loop ACDA, -10I2 + 100(I1 –I2) – 4 = 0

Chapter 1: DC Circuits

∴ 100I1 – 110 I2 = 4 …(2)

Solve for equations (1) and (2) simultaneously,
I1 = 69.33mA and I2 = 0.0267 A = 26.67 mA

Thus the reading on the milliammeter is 26.67 mA. The current is flowing
from A to C.

27. Determine the magnitude and direction of current through 3 Ωresistance

and calculate the values of E1 and E2 when the power dissipated in the 5
Ω resistor is 125 W, for the circuit shown in the Fig 1.64.

Fig 1.64

Solution:
The various currents and the corresponding voltage polarities are shown
in the Fig 1.65

Fig 1.65

Now power dissipated in 5 Ω is 125 W.

P5Ω = (I + 2.5)2 x 5 as P = I2R

∴ 125 = (I + 2.5)2 x 5
∴ I = 2.5 A …Current through 3 Ω

Apply KVL to the two loops,

Loop ABCFA, -3 I + 2.5 x 2 – E2 + E1 = 0

Chapter 1: DC Circuits

∴ -3 x 2.5 + 2.5 x 2 = E2 –E1

∴ E2 – E1= - 2.5 …(1)

Loop FCDEF, + E2 – 2.5 x 2 – 5 x(I + 2.5) = 0

E2 – 5 – 5 x (2.5 + 2.5) = 0
∴ E2 = 30 V …(2)

Substituting in (1), E2 = 32.5 V

28. For the circuit is shown in Fig. 1.66,

Fig. 1.66

i) Find the equivalent resistance across the supply.

ii) If the voltage drop across 5Ω is 100 V, find the supply voltage.

iii) Find the power consumed by each resistance.

Solution :
It is a series combination of resistances.

i) Req = R1 + R2 + R3 = 5 Ω + 10 Ω + 20 Ω = 35Ω
ii) The drop across R1 is 100 V given. The current remains same
through R1, R2 and R3.

∴ V1 = drop across R1 = I x R1 = 100 V

100 100
∴ I = = = 20 A
R1 5

∴ V2 = drop across R2 = I x R2 = 20 x 10 = 200 V

∴ V3 = drop across R3 = I x R3 = 20 x 20 = 400 V

∴ V = V1 + V2 + V3 = 100 + 200 + 400 = 700 V … supply voltage

Chapter 1: DC Circuits

iii) P1 = power consumed by R1 = V1I or I2R1 = 2000 W

P2 = power consumed by R2 = V2I or I2R2 = 4000 W
P3 = power consumed by R3 = V3I or I2R3 =8000 W

29. The four resistances 40 Ω, 32 Ω, 60 Ω and R4Ω are connected in parallel

across d.c. supply. Current in 40 Ω is 3 A while the total current from supply
is 25.8 A. Find, i) Supply voltage ii) R4 iii) Equivalent resistance across
the supply.

Solution:
The circuit diagram is shown in the Fig 1.67

Fig 1.67
In parallel, circuit voltage across each resistance is the same and equal to
the supply voltage.

i) Supply voltage V = I1R1 = I2R2 = I3R3 = I4R4 (1)

∴ V = I1R1 = 3 x 40 = 120 V

ii) Substituting, V in (1), 120 = I2 x 32 = I3 x 60 = I4 x R4

∴ I2 = 3.75 A, I3 = 2 A

but IT = I1 + I2 + I3 +I4
∴ 25.8 = 3 + 3.75 + 2+ I4

∴ I4 = 17.05 A

and I4 x R4 = V i.e. 17.05 x R4 = 120

∴ R4 = 7.0381 Ω
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
iii) For parallel circuit, = + + + = + + +
Req R1 R2 R3 R4 40 32 62 7.0381

∴ Req= 4.6511 Ω

Exercise problems

1. Two batteries A and B, are connected in parallel, and a load of 10 Ω is

connected across their terminals. A has an e.m.f of 12 V and internal
resistance of 2 Ω. B has an e.m.f of 8 V and internal resistance of 1 Ω.
Use Kirchhoff's laws to determine the values and directions of the
currents flowing in each of the batteries and in the external resistance.
Also, determine the potential difference across the external resistance.

2. For the circuit shown in Fig 1.68, calculate the value of the current in
either branch and the value of the unknown resistance R when the total
current taken by the network is 2.25 A.

Fig 1.68

3. A resistance of R is connected in series with a parallel circuit comprising

of two resistances of 12Ω and 8Ω, respectively. The total power
dissipation in the circuit is 60W when applied voltage 20V. Calculate R.

4. In a circuit, two resistors RΩ and 40Ω connected in parallel; this

combination is connected with a 40Ω resistor in series. This series-
parallel combination is again connected in parallel with a 30Ω resistor
and supplied with 5V DC. Find the voltage value of resistance ‘R’ so that
the current drawn from the source is 250mA.

5. Two storage batteries A and B, are connected in parallel to supply a load

of 0.30 Ω. The open-circuit e.m.f. of A is 11.7 V, and that of B is 12.3 V.
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

The internal resistances are 0.06 Ω and 0.05 Ω, respectively. Find the
current supplied to the load for the circuit shown in the Fig 1.69.

Fig 1.69

6. Find the current in the battery, the current in each branch and p.d. across
AB in the network shown in Fig 1.70.

Fig 1.70

7. Find the current flowing through the galvanometer G in the Wheatstone

bridge network shown in the Fig 1.71.

Fig 1.71

8. Calculate currents in each resistor, total power and power dissipated in

each resistor for the circuit shown in the Fig 1.72.
Chapter 1: DC Circuits

Fig 1.72

9. What is the potential between the point x and y in the circuit shown in
the Fig 1.73

Fig. 1.73

10. A current of 20A flows through 2 ammeters A and B in series. The

potential difference across ‘A’ is 0.2V and across B is 0.3V. Find how
the same current will divide between A and B when they are in parallel.

12. Find the power dissipated (or generated) in all the elements of the circuit
shown in the Fig. 1.74 if the voltage across the 22.5 Ω resistor is 90 V.

Fig. 1.74