Calculate the battery current I in the shown four-branch circuit containing ideal diodes. The source is 10 V; the four branch resistances are 4 Ω, 3 Ω, 2 Ω and 5 Ω (see diode orientations in figure). Image
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Question

Calculate the battery current I in the shown four-branch circuit containing ideal diodes. The source is 10 V; the four branch resistances are 4 Ω, 3 Ω, 2 Ω and 5 Ω (see diode orientations in figure). Image

Options

G1 Physics · Accepted Answer

Step 1: The left rail is positive relative to the right rail because of the battery polarity. Step 2: Using the diode directions in the source diagram, only the 4 Ω and 2 Ω branches are forward-biased and conducting. The 3 Ω and 5 Ω branches are reverse-biased and open. Step 3: The equivalent resistance is 4 Ω in parallel with 2 Ω: R(equivalent) = (4 × 2)/(4 + 2) = 4/3 Ω. Step 4: Apply Ohm’s law: I = 10/(4/3) = 10 × 3/4 = 7.5 A. Final answer: I = 15/2 A (Option B).