Does Superposition Theorm Apply to power?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of superposition and its application in finding voltage, current, and power in both the time and phasor domains. It is emphasized that superposition only applies to voltages and currents, not powers. In the phasor domain, the power from each source can be added together, but the currents cannot if they have different phases. However, using the individual currents from each source, the power from each can be calculated and the sum of these individual powers is equal to the total power. Additionally, it is mentioned that superposition does not work for values that have a squared relationship with voltage or current.
  • #1
snowJT
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0
Does it, or is that current? (sorta yes or no answer I guess)
 
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  • #2
No. the total power dissiapted to an element is not the sum of the powers dissipated by the individual sources. You can find voltage or current using superposition and then calculate overall power, though
 
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  • #3
I'm not sure I understand the question, snowJT. Can you provide some specific examples?
 
  • #4
The answer is no. Superposition theorem applies only for voltages and currents, not powers.
 
  • #5
Superposition can be used to find the total current when it is in the time domain. Using that current, you can then find voltage across or power absorbed by a resistor.
In the phasor domain, superposition can be used to find the total power by adding together the power from each source. The currents can NOT be added in the phasor domain if they have different phases (superposition does NOT apply if the voltage or power sources are out of phase). However, using the individual currents from each of the sources it is possible to find the power resulting from each of the individual sources, and the sum of the individual powers is the total power.
 
  • #6
No, because power is proportional to voltage squared or current squared. If you accept that superposition works for these, try to see why it wouldn't work for another value that has a squared relationship with them.
 
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Related to Does Superposition Theorm Apply to power?

1. Does superposition theorem apply to AC power?

Yes, superposition theorem applies to both DC and AC power. The principle states that the total voltage or current in a linear circuit is the sum of the individual voltages or currents caused by each source acting alone.

2. Can superposition theorem be used to calculate power in a circuit?

No, superposition theorem cannot be directly used to calculate power in a circuit. It is primarily used to solve for voltage and current values in a circuit with multiple power sources. However, power can be calculated using Ohm's law and the formulas for power dissipation in resistors.

3. What are the limitations of superposition theorem in regards to power?

Superposition theorem can only be applied to linear circuits, which means that the circuit elements must have a linear relationship between voltage and current. Additionally, it cannot be used for circuits with dependent sources or non-linear elements such as diodes and transistors.

4. How is superposition theorem used in power system analysis?

In power system analysis, superposition theorem is used to simplify complex circuits with multiple power sources. By breaking down the circuit into smaller parts and analyzing each one separately, it becomes easier to understand and solve power system problems.

5. Can superposition theorem be applied to circuits with reactive elements?

Yes, superposition theorem can be applied to circuits with reactive elements such as capacitors and inductors. However, the calculations become more complex as the reactance of these elements depends on the frequency of the AC power source.

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