Why Is Internal Resistance Shown Differently in Voltage and Current Sources?

In summary, the internal resistance of an energy source or cell is shown in series for voltage sources and in parallel for current sources in order to accurately calculate the effect of loading the source. For voltage sources, the internal resistance causes a drop in voltage with increasing current, while for current sources, the internal resistance divides the current between the source and load resistance. Showing the internal resistance in a different configuration would not accurately reflect its effect.
  • #1
amaresh92
163
0
why the internal resistance of energy source or cell is shown in series for voltage source and in parallel for current source?
thanks.
 
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  • #2
Because it doesn't make a whole lot of sense to show it any other way.

Th source resistance is meant to allow you to calculate the effect of loading the source. With an ideal voltage source that has internal resistance, the more current you draw from it, the more voltage is dropped by that resistor, so the voltage for the source as a whole drops. A load in parallel with an ideal source will not affect the voltage at all, so there's no point in showing one.

Likewise with a current source. If the internal resistance is show in series with current source, it won't make any difference. Shown in parallel, the current is divided between the source and load resistance.
 

Related to Why Is Internal Resistance Shown Differently in Voltage and Current Sources?

1. What is the difference between a voltage source and a current source?

A voltage source is a device that maintains a constant voltage output regardless of the load connected to it. On the other hand, a current source is a device that maintains a constant current output regardless of the load connected to it.

2. How do voltage and current sources affect a circuit?

Voltage and current sources are used to power electronic circuits. A voltage source provides a potential difference that allows charges to flow through a circuit, while a current source provides a constant flow of charges. Both sources are necessary for a circuit to function properly.

3. Can a voltage source act like a current source and vice versa?

In theory, yes. A voltage source can be designed to provide a constant current output, and a current source can be designed to provide a constant voltage output. However, in practice, it is difficult to achieve perfect constant output with either source.

4. What are some common examples of voltage and current sources?

Some common examples of voltage sources include batteries, power supplies, and generators. Current sources include solar cells, transistors, and specialized electronic circuits.

5. How do voltage and current sources relate to Ohm's Law?

Ohm's Law states that the voltage across a resistor is directly proportional to the current flowing through the resistor, with the proportionality constant being the resistance. Voltage and current sources are used to create and maintain the voltage and current in a circuit, allowing Ohm's Law to be applied.

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