Network Theorems
1. Superposition Theorem
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Statement
EC
· In any linear, bilateral network containing more than one
independent source, the current or voltage in any element is the
algebraic sum of the currents or voltages produced by each source acting
alone, while all other sources are replaced by their internal resistances.
How to Apply (Exam Steps)
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1. Consider one independent source at a time
2. Replace other sources:
o Voltage source → Short circuit
o Current source → Open circuit
3. Find response (current/voltage)
4. Repeat for all sources
5. Add all responses algebraically
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Important MCQ Points
· Applicable only to:
o Linear circuits
o Bilateral elements (R, L, C)
· Not applicable to power
(because power ∝ (I^2), non-linear)
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· Dependent sources are not removed
Common MCQ Traps
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· ❌ Cannot calculate power using superposition
· ❌ Not valid for non-linear devices (diode, transistor)
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2. Thevenin’s Theorem
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Statement
· Any linear, bilateral two-terminal network can be replaced by an
equivalent circuit consisting of:
o A single voltage source Vth
o In series with a single resistance Rth
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Steps to Find Thevenin Equivalent
1. Remove the load resistor
2. Find open-circuit voltage at terminals → (V_{th})
3. Deactivate all independent sources:
EC
o Voltage source → short
o Current source → open
4. Find equivalent resistance → (Rth)
5. Replace original circuit with (Vth) in series with (Rth)
Important MCQ Facts
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· (Vth) = Open-circuit voltage
· (Rth}) = Resistance seen from terminals
· Applicable only to linear networks
· Simplifies complex circuits for load analysis
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3. Norton’s Theorem
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EC
Statement
· Any linear two-terminal network can be replaced by:
o A single current source (IN)
o In parallel with a single resistance (RN)
Steps to Find Norton Equivalent
1. Remove load
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2. Find short-circuit current → (In)
3. Deactivate all independent sources
4. Find equivalent resistance → (Rn)
5. Replace circuit with (IN) in parallel with (Rn)
Relationship Between Thevenin and Norton
Rn = Rth
In = Vth /Rth
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MCQ Highlights
· Thevenin ↔ Norton are interchangeable
· Same resistance in both models
· Choice depends on ease of calculation
4. Maximum Power Transfer Theorem
DC Circuits
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Statement
· Maximum power is delivered to the load when:
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RL = Rth
AC Circuits
Condition
ZL = Zth*
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(Load impedance equals complex conjugate of source impedance)
Maximum Power Formula (DC)
Pmax = Vth^2 / 4Rth
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MCQ Key Points
· At maximum power:
o Efficiency = 50%
o Half power dissipated in source
· Used in:
o Communication systems
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o Audio amplifiers
· Not used in power transmission (low efficiency)
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5. Quick Comparison Table (High-Yield MCQs)
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6. Very Common MCQ Statements (Direct Questions)
✔ Superposition theorem is not applicable to power
✔ Rth = Rn
✔ (VN) is open-circuit voltage
✔ (IN) is short-circuit current
✔ Maximum power transfer efficiency = 50%
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EC
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