In the circuit shown, the current through the 3 Ω resistor is x/3 A. Find x. Image

Question

G1 Physics · Accepted Answer

The 3 Ω and 6 Ω resistors are in parallel, giving 2 Ω. Total series resistance is 0.5 + 1 + 4.5 + 2 = 8 Ω. The two sources oppose, so net emf = 8 − 4 = 4 V. Total current = 4/8 = 0.5 A. Current division through 3 Ω and 6 Ω gives I(3Ω):I(6Ω) = 6:3 = 2:1. Hence I(3Ω) = (2/3)(0.5) = 1/3 A = x/3 A. Final value: 1