Connecting two circuits with a single conductor

In summary, connecting two independent circuits at two points with a single conductor that are at arbitrary voltages may change the currents and voltages in both circuits, depending on the specifics. If the circuits are not earthed, the voltages and potential differences will remain the same. However, if the circuits are earthed, connecting them may change the voltages and currents. Additionally, there may be some current flow in the connecting wire if the circuits have capacitance.
  • #1
TheCanadian
367
13
If you have two independent circuits, and then connect them at two points that are at arbitrary voltages by a single conductor, what happens to the system? A moment after the connection happens, I would assume there to be no current between the circuits since the two circuits would try and establish equal potential at the two points they're connected by, right? But would that actually happen? If you had a current I1 going through one of the circuits for example, and then connected the two circuits together by this one conductor, would I1 change at that instant (unless the two points the conductor is connected to is at equal potential)?
 
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  • #2
It may definitely change the currents and voltages in both circuits. In what way will depend on the specifics.
 
  • #3
TheCanadian said:
If you have two independent circuits, and then connect them at two points that are at arbitrary voltages by a single conductor, what happens to the system? A moment after the connection happens, I would assume there to be no current between the circuits since the two circuits would try and establish equal potential at the two points they're connected by, right? But would that actually happen? If you had a current I1 going through one of the circuits for example, and then connected the two circuits together by this one conductor, would I1 change at that instant (unless the two points the conductor is connected to is at equal potential)?
The potential is defined with respect to a given point. If two circuits have only a single point in common that point can be considered as the zero of potential for both of them. All the voltages (potential differences) are the same as before they get connected.
The situation is different if the circuits are earthed. In this case, connecting them changes the voltages and currents, as they got two points in common, unless the points were at the same potential with respect to the ground.
 
  • #4
What ehild said.

There might be some current flow in the single the connecting wire if the "independent" circuits actually have some capacitance that completes the circuit.
 

1. How can two circuits be connected using a single conductor?

In order to connect two circuits with a single conductor, the conductor must be split into two branches and each branch must be connected to a different circuit. This allows for the flow of electric current between the two circuits.

2. What is the purpose of connecting two circuits with a single conductor?

The purpose of connecting two circuits with a single conductor is to allow for the transfer of electric current between the two circuits. This can be useful in situations where you want to combine the functions of two separate circuits or when you want to control multiple circuits with a single input.

3. What are some potential risks of connecting two circuits with a single conductor?

One potential risk of connecting two circuits with a single conductor is the possibility of overloading the conductor. This can lead to overheating and potential electrical hazards. Additionally, if the two circuits have different voltage levels, there is a risk of damaging one or both circuits.

4. Is there a limit to how many circuits can be connected with a single conductor?

The number of circuits that can be connected with a single conductor depends on the amperage rating of the conductor and the amperage requirements of the connected circuits. It is important to make sure the conductor can handle the combined current of all the circuits to avoid overloading and potential hazards.

5. What are some alternative methods for connecting multiple circuits?

Instead of using a single conductor to connect multiple circuits, you can use a bus bar or a circuit breaker panel. These methods provide a safer and more organized way to connect multiple circuits by providing individual connections for each circuit. They also have the ability to handle higher amperage levels and can be easily expanded for future circuit additions.

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