Electronics · DC circuits / Principles and inquiry
Kirchhoff's laws experiment guide
Measure the direction and magnitude of branch currents where two sources meet. Add voltages around each loop to check energy conservation.
How does it work?
The algebraic sum of currents at a junction and voltages around a closed loop is zero.
Key relationship
I₁ + I₂ − I₃ = 0 · E₁ − I₁R₁ − I₃R₃ = 0
Try this investigation
- Change the two source voltages and watch the signs and arrows of the branch currents.
- Run and record each of the three baseline presets.
- Reverse one source polarity or change the shared branch resistance.
Interpreting your results
If I₁=5 mA and I₂=−4 mA, what is I₃ leaving the junction?
1 mA
Assumptions and limitations
This is a fixed circuit with two ideal DC sources and three resistors. Wire resistance and meter loading are omitted. Use buttons to select the probe position. Use this simulation; do not reproduce it with real power supplies or wall outlets.