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Basic Theory

Superposition Theorem

Superposition Theorem Definition In a linear circuit with multiple sources, the current (or voltage) in any branch equals the algebraic sum of the currents (or…

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Superposition theoremCircuit theoremLinear circuit

Superposition Theorem

Definition

In a linear circuit with multiple sources, the current (or voltage) in any branch equals the algebraic sum of the currents (or voltages) produced by each source acting alone.

Application Steps

  • Keep one source, set others to zero
  • - Voltage source: short circuit

    - Current source: open circuit

  • Calculate the response with that source alone
  • Repeat above steps
  • Algebraically add all responses
  • Notes

  • Only applicable to linear circuits
  • Power cannot be superimposed
  • Pay attention to current/voltage directions