Problems

Section 8.3: The Response of a First Order Circuit to a Constant Input

P8.3-1
Here is the circuit before t = 0, when the switch is
open and the circuit is at steady state. The open
switch is modeled as an open circuit.

A capacitor in a steady-state dc circuit acts like an

open circuit, so an open circuit replaces the
capacitor. The voltage across that open circuit is the
initial capacitor voltage, v (0).

By voltage division
6
v ( 0) = (12 ) = 4 V
6+6+6

Next, consider the circuit after the switch closes. The

closed switch is modeled as a short circuit.

We need to find the Thevenin equivalent of the part

of the circuit connected to the capacitor. Here’s the
circuit used to calculate the open circuit voltage, Voc.

6
Voc = (12 ) = 6 V
6+6

Here is the circuit that is used to determine Rt. A

short circuit has replaced the closed switch.
Independent sources are set to zero when calculating
Rt, so the voltage source has been replaced by a short
circuit.
Rt =
( 6 )( 6 ) = 3 Ω
6+6
Then
τ = R t C = 3 ( 0.25) = 0.75 s

Finally,
v ( t ) = Voc + ( v ( 0 ) − Voc ) e −t / τ = 6 − 2 e −1.33 t V for t > 0
P8.3-2

Here is the circuit before t = 0, when the switch is

closed and the circuit is at steady state. The closed
switch is modeled as a short circuit.

An inductor in a steady-state dc circuit acts like an

short circuit, so a short circuit replaces the inductor.
The current in that short circuit is the initial inductor
current, i(0).

12
i (0) = =2 A
6

Next, consider the circuit after the switch opens. The

open switch is modeled as an open circuit.

We need to find the Norton equivalent of the part of

the circuit connected to the inductor. Here’s the
circuit used to calculate the short circuit current, Isc.

12
I sc = =1 A
6+6

Here is the circuit that is used to determine Rt. An

open circuit has replaced the open switch.
Independent sources are set to zero when calculating
Rt, so the voltage source has been replaced by an
short circuit.
R t = 6 || ( 6 + 6 ) =
( 6 + 6 )( 6 ) = 4 Ω
(6 + 6) + 6
Then
L 8
τ= = =2 s
Rt 4

Finally,
i ( t ) = I sc + ( i ( 0 ) − I sc ) e −t / τ = 1 + e −0.5 t A for t > 0
P8.3-3
Before the switch closes:

After the switch closes:

−6
Therefore R t = = 3 Ω so τ = 3 ( 0.05 ) = 0.15 s .
−2
Finally, v (t ) = voc + (v (0) − voc ) e− t τ = −6 + 18 e−6.67 t V for t > 0

P8.3-4
Before the switch closes:

After the switch closes:

 −6 6
Therefore R t = = 3 Ω so τ = = 2 s .
−2 3
t
− 10
Finally, i (t ) = isc + (i (0) − isc ) e τ = −2 + e −0.5 t A for t > 0
3

P8.3-5
Before the switch opens, v o ( t ) = 5 V ⇒ v o ( 0 ) = 5 V . After the switch opens the part of the
circuit connected to the capacitor can be replaced by it's Thevenin equivalent circuit to get:

Therefore τ = ( 20 × 103 )( 4 × 10−6 ) = 0.08 s .

t
−
Next, v C (t ) = voc + (v (0) − voc ) e τ
= 10 − 5 e −12.5 t V for t > 0

Finally, v 0 (t ) = vC (t ) = 10 − 5 e−12.5t V for t > 0

P8.3-6
5
Before the switch opens, i o ( t ) = = 0.25 mA ⇒ i o ( 0 ) = 0.25 mA . After the switch
20 × 103
opens the part of the circuit connected to the inductor can be replaced by it's Norton equivalent
circuit to get:

5
Therefore τ = = 0.25 ms .
20 × 103
t
−
Next, i L (t ) = isc + (i L (0) − isc ) e τ
= 0.5 − 0.25 e −4000 t mA for t > 0

d
Finally, vo ( t ) = 5 i L ( t ) = 5 e −4000 t V for t > 0
dt

P8.3-7
At t = 0− (steady-state)

Since the input to this circuit is constant, the

inductor will act like a short circuit when the
circuit is at steady-state:

for t > 0

iL ( t ) = iL ( 0 ) e − ( R L ) t = 6 e −20t A
P8.3-8
Before the switch opens, the circuit will be at steady state. Because the only input to this circuit
is the constant voltage of the voltage source, all of the element currents and voltages, including
the capacitor voltage, will have constant values. Opening the switch disturbs the circuit.
Eventually the disturbance dies out and the circuit is again at steady state. All the element
currents and voltages will again have constant values, but probably different constant values than
they had before the switch opened.

Here is the circuit before t = 0, when the

switch is closed and the circuit is at steady state.
The closed switch is modeled as a short circuit. The
combination of resistor and a short circuit
connected is equivalent to a short circuit.
Consequently, a short circuit replaces the switch
and the resistor R. A capacitor in a steady-state dc
circuit acts like an open circuit, so an open circuit
replaces the capacitor. The voltage across that open
circuit is the capacitor voltage, vo(t).

Because the circuit is at steady state, the value of the capacitor voltage will be constant.
This constant is the value of the capacitor voltage just before the switch opens. In the absence of
unbounded currents, the voltage of a capacitor must be continuous. The value of the capacitor
voltage immediately after the switch opens is equal to the value immediately before the switch
opens. This value is called the initial condition of the capacitor and has been labeled as vo(0).
There is no current in the horizontal resistor due to the open circuit. Consequently, vo(0) is equal
to the voltage across the vertical resistor, which is equal to the voltage source voltage. Therefore

vo ( 0 ) = Vs

The value of vo(0) can also be obtained by setting t = 0 in the equation for vo(t). Doing so gives

vo ( 0 ) = 2 + 8 e0 = 10 V
Consequently,
Vs = 10 V

Next, consider the circuit after the switch opens.

Eventually (certainly as t →∞) the circuit will again
be at steady state. Here is the circuit at t = ∞, when
the switch is open and the circuit is at steady state.
The open switch is modeled as an open circuit. A
capacitor in a steady-state dc circuit acts like an
open circuit, so an open circuit replaces the
capacitor. The voltage across that open circuit is the
steady-state capacitor voltage, vo(∞). There is no
current in the horizontal resistor and vo(∞) is equal
 to the voltage across the vertical resistor. Using
voltage division,
10
vo ( ∞ ) = (10 )
R + 10

The value of vo(∞) can also be obtained by setting t = ∞ in the equation for vo(t). Doing so gives

vo ( ∞ ) = 2 + 8 e−∞ = 2 V
Consequently,
10
2= (10 ) ⇒ 2 R + 20 = 100 ⇒ R = 40 Ω
R + 10
−t τ
Finally, the exponential part of vo(t) is known to be of the form e where
τ = R t C and Rt is the Thevenin resistance of the part of the circuit connected to the capacitor.

Here is the circuit that is used to determine Rt. An

open circuit has replaced the open switch.
Independent sources are set to zero when
calculating Rt, so the voltage source has been
replaced by a short circuit.

R t = 10 +
( 40 )(10 ) = 18 Ω
40 + 10
so
τ = R t C = 18 C

From the equation for vo(t)

t
−0.5 t = − ⇒ τ =2s
τ
Consequently,

2 = 18 C ⇒ C = 0.111 = 111 mF

P8.3-9:
Before the switch closes, the circuit will be at steady state. Because the only input to this circuit
is the constant voltage of the voltage source, all of the element currents and voltages, including
the inductor current, will have constant values. Closing the switch disturbs the circuit by shorting
out the resistor R1. Eventually the disturbance dies out and the circuit is again at steady state. All
the element currents and voltages will again have constant values, but probably different constant
values than they had before the switch closed.

The inductor current is equal to the current in the 3 Ω resistor. Consequently,

 − 0.35 t
vo (t ) 6 − 3 e − 0.35 t
i (t ) = = = 2− e A when t > 0
3 3

In the absence of unbounded voltages, the current in any inductor is continuous. Consequently,
the value of the inductor current immediately before t = 0 is equal to the value immediately after
t = 0.
Here is the circuit before t = 0, when the switch is
open and the circuit is at steady state. The open
switch is modeled as an open circuit. An inductor in
a steady-state dc circuit acts like a short circuit, so a
short circuit replaces the inductor. The current in that
short circuit is the steady state inductor current, i(0).
Apply KVL to the loop to get

R1 i ( 0 ) + R 2 i ( 0 ) + 3 i ( 0 ) − 24 = 0
24
⇒ i ( 0) =
R1 + R 2 + 3

The value of i(0) can also be obtained by setting t = 0 in the equation for i(t). Do so gives

i ( 0 ) = 2 − e0 = 1 A
Consequently,
24
1= ⇒ R1 + R 2 = 21
R1 + R 2 + 3

Next, consider the circuit after the switch closes.

Here is the circuit at t = ∞, when the switch is closed
and the circuit is at steady state. The closed switch is
modeled as a short circuit. The combination of
resistor and a short circuit connected is equivalent to
a short circuit. Consequently, a short circuit replaces
the switch and the resistor R1.
An inductor in a steady-state dc circuit acts like a short circuit, so a short circuit replaces the
inductor. The current in that short circuit is the steady state inductor current, i(∞). Apply KVL to
the loop to get
24
R 2 i ( ∞ ) + 3 i ( ∞ ) − 24 = 0 ⇒ i ( ∞ ) =
R2 + 3
The value of i(∞) can also be obtained by setting t = ∞ in the equation for i(t). Doing so gives

i ( ∞ ) = 2 − e−∞ = 2 A
Consequently
 24
2= ⇒ R2 = 9 Ω
R2 + 3
Then
R1 = 12 Ω
−t τ L
Finally, the exponential part of i(t) is known to be of the form e where τ = and
Rt
Rt is the Thevenin resistance of the part of the circuit that is connected to the inductor.

Here is shows the circuit that is used to determine Rt. A

short circuit has replaced combination of resistor R1 and the
closed switch. Independent sources are set to zero when
calculating Rt, so the voltage source has been replaced by an
short circuit.

R t = R 2 + 3 = 9 + 3 = 12 Ω
so
L L
τ= =
R t 12
From the equation for i(t)
t
−0.35 t = − ⇒ τ = 2.857 s
τ
Consequently,
L
2.857 = ⇒ L = 34.28 H
12

P8.3-10
First, use source transformations to obtain the equivalent circuit

for t < 0: for t > 0:

 1
L 1
So iL ( 0 ) = 2 A, I sc = 0, Rt = 3 + 9 = 12 Ω, τ = = 2 = s
Rt 12 24
and iL ( t ) = 2e−24t t >0
Finally v ( t ) = 9 iL ( t ) = 18 e−24t t >0

P8.3-11
As t → ∞ the circuit reaches steady state and the capacitor
acts like an open circuit. Also, from the given equation,
v ( t ) → 8 V , as labeled on the drawing to the right, then

4
8= 24 ⇒ R2 = 8 Ω
R2 + 4

After t = 0
v C ( t ) = 24 − v ( t ) = 16 − 4e−2t

Immediately after t = 0

v C ( 0 + ) = 16 − 4 = 12 V

The capacitor voltage cannot change instantaneously so

v ( 0 − ) = 12 V
The circuit is at steady state just before the switch closes so
the capacitor acts like an open circuit. Then

8
12 = 24 ⇒ R1 = 4 Ω
R1 + 4 + 8

After t = 0 the Thevenin resistance seen by the capacitor is

8
Rt = 8 & 4 = Ω
3
so
1 3
2= ⇒ C= F
8 16
C
3
P8.3-12
Before t = 0, with the switch closed and the circuit at steady state, the inductor acts like a short
circuit so we have

Using superposition
9
i (0 −) = − 5 × 10−3 = −2 mA
3000
The inductor current is continuous so i ( 0 + ) = i ( 0 − ) = −2 mA .

After t = 0, the switch is open. Determine the Norton equivalent circuit for the part of the circuit
connected to the inductor:

9
i sc = = 3 mA
3000
R t = 3000 & 6000 = 2000 Ω

L 5 1
The time constant is given by τ = = = 0.0025 so = 400 .
R t 2000 τ
The inductor current is given by

i L ( t ) = ( i ( 0 + ) − i sc ) e −t τ + i sc = ( −0.002 − 0.003) e −400 t + 0.003 = 3 − 5e −400 t mA for t ≥ 0

(checked: LNAP 6/29/04)

P8.3-13
Before t = 0, with the switch closed and the circuit at the steady state, the capacitor acts like an
open circuit so we have

Using superposition

60 & 60 60 & 30 ⎛1⎞ ⎛1⎞

v (0 −) = 6+ 36 = ⎜ ⎟ 6 + ⎜ ⎟ 36 = 12 V
30 + ( 60 & 60 ) 60 + ( 60 & 30 ) ⎝2⎠ ⎝4⎠
The capacitor voltage is continuous so v ( 0 + ) = v ( 0 − ) = 12 V .
After t = 0 the switch is open. Determine the Thevenin equivalent circuit for the part of the
circuit connected to the capacitor:

60
v oc = 6=4V
60 + 30

R t = 30 & 60 = 20 kΩ

The time constant is τ = R t C = ( 20 × 103 )( 5 × 10−6 ) = 0.1 s so

1 1
= 10 .
τ s
The capacitor voltage is given by

v ( t ) = ( v ( 0 + ) − v oc ) e − t τ + v oc = (12 − 4 ) e −10t + 4 = 4 + 8 e −10t V for t ≥ 0

(checked: LNAP 6/29/04)

P8.3-14
Before t = 0, with the switch open and the circuit at steady state, the inductor acts like a short
circuit so we have

18 ⎡ 5 ⎤
i (t ) = − ⎢ 2 ⎥ = 0.29 A
4 + 18 ⎣ 5 + 20 + (18 & 4 ) ⎦

After t = 0, we can replace the part of the circuit connected to the inductor by its Norton
equivalent circuit. First, performing a couple of source transformations reduces the circuit to
Next, replace the series voltage sources by an equivalent voltage source, replace the series
resistors by an equivalent resistor and do a couple of source transformations to get

so
2 1 1
τ= = 0.25 ⇒ =5
10 τ s
The current is given by

i ( t ) = [ 0.29 − 0.4] e−5t + 0.4 = 0.4 − 0.11e−5t A for t ≥ 0

P8.3-15
At steady-state, immediately before t = 0:

⎛ 10 ⎞ ⎛ 12 ⎞
i ( 0) = ⎜ ⎟ ⎜ ⎟ = 0.1 A
⎝ 10 + 40 ⎠ ⎝ 16 + 40||10 ⎠

After t = 0, the Norton equivalent of the circuit connected to the inductor is found to be

L 20 1
so I sc = 0.3 A, Rt = 40 Ω, τ = = = s
Rt 40 2
Finally: i (t ) = (0.1 − 0.3)e −2t + 0.3 = 0.3 − 0.2e −2t A

P8.3-16
At steady-state, immediately before t = 0
After t = 0, we have:

so Voc = 12 V, Rt = 200 Ω, τ = Rt C = (200)(20 ⋅10 −6 ) = 4 ms

Finally: v(t ) = (12 − 12) e−t 0.004 + 12 = 12 V

P8.3-17
Immediately before t = 0, i (0) = 0.

After t = 0, replace the circuit connected to the inductor by its Norton equivalent to calculate the
inductor current:

L 25 5
I sc = 0.2 A, Rt = 45 Ω, τ = = =
Rth 45 9

So i (t ) = 0.2 (1 − e−1.8t ) A
Now that we have the inductor current, we can calculate v(t):

d
v(t ) = 40 i (t ) + 25 i (t )
dt
= 8(1 − e −1.8t ) + 5(1.8)e −1.8t
= 8 + e −1.8t V for t > 0

P8.3-18
At steady-state, immediately before t = 0
 so i(0) = 0.5 A.

After t > 0: Replace the circuit connected to the inductor by its Norton equivalent to get

I sc = 93.75 mA, Rt = 640 Ω,

L .1 1
τ = = = s
Rt 640 6400

i (t ) = 406.25 e−6400t + 93.75 mA

Finally:

d
v(t ) = 400 i (t ) + 0.1 i (t ) = 400 (.40625e −6400t + .09375) + 0.1(−6400) (0.40625e −6400t )
dt
= 37.5 − 97.5e −6400t V

P8.3-19
Before the switch closes v(t) = 0 so v ( 0 + ) = v ( 0 − ) = 0 V .

For t > 0, we find the Thevenin equivalent circuit for the part of the circuit connected to the
capacitor, i.e. the part of the circuit to the left of the terminals a – b.

Find Rt:
 12 (10 + 2 )
Rt = =6Ω
12 + (10 + 2 )

Write mesh equations to find voc:

Mesh equations:

12 i1 + 10 i1 − 6 ( i2 − i1 ) = 0
6 ( i2 − i1 ) + 3 i 2 − 18 = 0

28 i1 = 6 i 2
9 i 2 − 6 i1 = 18

1
36 i1 = 18 ⇒ i1 = A
2
14 ⎛ 1 ⎞ 7
i2 = ⎜ ⎟= A
3 ⎝2⎠ 3

⎛7⎞ ⎛1⎞
Using KVL, voc = 3 i 2 + 10 i1 = 3 ⎜ ⎟ + 10 ⎜ ⎟ = 12 V
⎝ 3⎠ ⎝ 2⎠
Then
⎛ 1 ⎞ 1 1 1
τ = R tC = 6 ⎜ ⎟= s ⇒ =4
⎝ 24 ⎠ 4 τ s
and
(
v ( t ) = ( v ( 0 + ) − v oc ) e −t τ + v oc = ( 0 − 12 ) e −4t + 12 = 12 1 − e −4t ) V for t ≥ 0

(checked: LNAP 7/15/04)

P8.3-20
Before the switch closes the circuit is at steady state so the inductor acts like a short circuit.
We have

1⎛ 24 ⎞
i ( t ) = ⎜⎜ ⎟ = 0.8 A
2 ⎝ 5 + ( 20 & 20 ) ⎟⎠
so
i ( 0 + ) = i ( 0 − ) = 0.8 A

After the switch closes, find the Thevenin equivalent circuit for the part of the circuit connected
to the inductor.

Using voltage division twice

⎛ 20 1 ⎞
v oc = ⎜ − ⎟ 24 = 7.2 V
⎝ 25 2 ⎠

R t = ( 5 & 20 ) + ( 20 & 20 ) = 14 Ω
v oc 7.2
i sc = = = 0.514 A
Rt 14

Then
L 3.5 1 1 1
τ= = = s ⇒ =4
R t 14 4 τ s
and
i ( t ) = ( i ( 0 + ) − i sc ) e −t τ + i sc = ( 0.8 − 0.514 ) e −4t + 0.514 = 0.286e −4t + 0.514 A for t ≥ 0

(checked: LNAP 7/15/04)

P8.3-21
Before the switch closes the circuit is at steady state so the inductor acts like a short circuit.
We have

So
⎛ 400 ⎞ ⎛ 24 ⎞
i (0 −) = ⎜ ⎟ ⎜ ⎟
⎜ 400 + R 2 ⎟ ⎜ 100 + ( 400 & R ) ⎟
⎝ ⎠⎝ 2 ⎠

From the given equation

i ( 0 + ) = (15 + 53.6e o ) × 10−3 = 68.6 mA

So
⎛ 400 ⎞ ⎛ 24 ⎞
0.0686 = i ( 0 + ) = i ( 0 − ) = ⎜ ⎟ ⎜ ⎟
⎜ 400 + R 2 ⎟ ⎜ 100 + ( 400 & R ) ⎟
⎝ ⎠⎝ 2 ⎠

or
⎛ 400 R 2 ⎞
0.0686 ( 400 + R 2 ) ⎜100 + ⎟ = 9600
⎜ 400 + R 2 ⎟⎠
⎝
Solving gives
R 2 = 199.988  200 Ω

Next, consider the steady state circuit after the switch closes. At steady state the inductor acts
like a short circuit.
From the given equation

i ( ∞ ) = lim i ( t ) = 0.015
t →∞

Apply KCL at node a to get

va v a − 24
+ + 0.015 = 0 ⇒ v a = 18 V
400 100

Apply KCL at node b to get

vb v b − 24
+ = 0.015
200 R1

Next, vb = va = 18 V so
 18 −6
+ = 0.015 ⇒ R1 = 80 Ω
200 R1
Finally, consider the circuit after the switch closes but before the circuit reaches steady state.
Replace the part of the circuit connected to the inductor by its Thevenin equivalent circuit.

⎛ 400 200 ⎞
v oc = ⎜ − ⎟ 24 = 2.057 V
⎝ 500 280 ⎠

R t = ( 400 & 100 ) + ( 80 & 200 ) = 80 + 57 = 137 Ω

1
From the given equation = 548 so
τ
L L 1
= = ⇒ L = 0.25 H
R t 137 548
(checked LNAPTR 7/24/04)

P8.3-22
Before t = 0, with the switch open and the circuit at steady state, the inductor acts like a short
circuit so we have

i (0 + ) = i ( 0 −) = 4 A

After t = 0, we can replace the part of the circuit connected to the inductor by its Norton
equivalent circuit.
 Using superposition, the short circuit current is
given by

⎛ 8 ⎞ ⎛ 3+8 ⎞
i sc = ⎜⎜ ⎟⎟ 2 + ⎜⎜ ⎟⎟ 4 = 3.75 A
⎝ 8 + ( 5 + 3) ⎠ ⎝ ( 3 + 8) + 5 ⎠

R t = 8 + 3 + 5 = 16 Ω
so
2 1 1
τ= = 0.125 s ⇒ =8
16 τ s

The inductor current is given by

i L ( t ) = ( i ( 0 + ) − i sc ) e −t τ + i sc = ( 4 − 3.75 ) e −8t + 3.75 = 3.75 − 0.25 e −8t A for t ≥ 0

(checked: LNAP 7/15/04)

P8.3-23

The voltage across the 6 Ω resistor may or may not

be continuous. The inductor current will be
continuous. We’ll use the inductor to solve this
problem.

v (t )
i (t ) = = 2 − e−3t A for t ≥ 0
6

As t → ∞ , the switch is closed and the circuit

reaches steady state. The inductor acts like a short
circuit.

Using current division

⎛ R1 ⎞
i (∞) = ⎜
⎜ R1 + 6 ⎟⎟
4
⎝ ⎠
Form the equation for i(t), i ( ∞ ) = 2 A . Thus

⎛ R1 ⎞
2=⎜ ⇒ R1 = 6 Ω
⎜ R1 + 6 ⎟⎟
4
⎝ ⎠

For t < 0, the switch is open and the circuit is at

steady state. The inductor acts like a short circuit.

Using current division

⎛ 6 ⎞
i (0 −) = ⎜ ⎟4
⎜ 6 + ( R2 + 6) ⎟
⎝ ⎠

From the equation for i(t), i ( 0 − ) = 1 A so

⎛ 6 ⎞
1= ⎜ ⎟4 ⇒ R 2 = 12 Ω
⎜ 6 + ( R2 + 6) ⎟
⎝ ⎠

For t > 0 the Thevenin impedance of the part of the

circuit connected to the inductor is

R t = 6 + 6 = 12 Ω
The time constant is
L L
τ= =
R t 12
1 1
From the equation for i(t), =3 .
τ s
Then
1 L
= ⇒ L=4H
3 12

(checked: LNAP 7/26/04)

Section 8-4: Sequential Switching

P8.4-1
Replace the part of the circuit connected to the capacitor by its Thevenin equivalent circuit to
get:

Before the switch closes at t = 0 the circuit is at steady state so v(0) = 10 V. For 0 < t < 1.5s, voc =
5 V and Rt = 4 Ω so τ = 4 × 0.05 = 0.2 s . Therefore

v (t ) = voc + (v (0) − voc ) e −t τ = 5 + 5e−5 t V for 0 < t < 1.5 s

At t =1.5 s, v (1.5) = 5 + 5e −0.05 (1.5) = 5 V . For 1.5 s < t, voc = 10 V and Rt = 8 Ω so

τ = 8 × 0.05 = 0.4 s . Therefore
−( t −1.5) τ −2.5 ( t −1.5)
v (t ) = voc + (v (1.5) − voc ) e = 10 − 5 e V for 1.5 s < t
Finally
⎧⎪ 5 + 5 e −5 t V for 0 < t < 1.5 s
v (t ) = ⎨ −2.5 ( t −1.5)
⎪⎩10 − 5 e V for 1.5 s < t

P8.4-2
Replace the part of the circuit connected to the inductor by its Norton equivalent circuit to get:

Before the switch closes at t = 0 the circuit is at steady state so i(0) = 3 A. For 0 < t < 1.5s, isc = 2
12
A and Rt = 6 Ω so τ = = 2 s . Therefore
6
i (t ) = isc + (i (0) − isc ) e−t τ = 2 + e−0.5 t A for 0 < t < 1.5 s
 12
At t =1.5 s, i (1.5) = 2 + e −0.5 (1.5) = 2.47 A . For 1.5 s < t, isc = 3 A and Rt = 8 Ω so τ = = 1.5 s .
8
Therefore
−( t −1.5) τ −0.667 ( t −1.5)
i (t ) = isc + (i (1.5) − isc ) e = 3 − 0.53 e V for 1.5 s < t
Finally
⎪⎧ 2 + e−0.5 t A for 0 < t < 1.5 s
i (t ) = ⎨
−0.667 ( t −1.5 ) for 1.5 s < t
⎪⎩3 − 0.53 e A

P8.4-3
At t = 0−:

KVL : − 52 + 18 i + (12 8) i = 0
⇒ i (0− ) =104 39 A
⎛ 6 ⎞ +
∴ iL = i ⎜ ⎟ = 2 A = iL (0 )
⎝ + ⎠
6 2

For 0 < t < 0.051 s iL (t ) = iL (0) e−t τ where τ = L R t

R t = 6 12 + 2 = 6 Ω
iL (t ) = 2 e −6t A

⎛ 6 +12 ⎞ −6 t
∴ i (t ) = iL (t ) ⎜ ⎟ =6e A
⎝ 6 ⎠

For t > 0.051 s

i L ( t ) = i L (0.051) e − ( R L ) ( t − 0.051)

i L (0.051) = 2 e − 6 (.051) = 1.473 A

i L ( t ) = 1.473 e − 14 ( t − 0.051) A
i ( t ) = i L ( t ) = 1.473 e − 14 ( t − 0.051) A
P8.4-4
At t = 0-: Assume that the circuit has reached steady state so that the voltage across the 100 μF
capacitor is 3 V. The charge stored by the capacitor is

q ( 0− ) = (100 × 10−6 ) ( 3 ) = 300 × 10 −6 C

0 < t < 10ms: With R negligibly small, the circuit reaches steady state almost immediately (i.e. at
t = 0+). The voltage across the parallel capacitors is determined by considering charge
conservation:

q ( 0+ ) = (100 μ F) v ( 0+ ) + (400 μ F) v ( 0+ )
q ( 0+ ) q ( 0− ) 300 × 10−6
v (0 +
) = 100 ×10 −6
= =
+ 400 ×10−6 500 × 10−6 500 × 10−6

( )
v 0+ = 0.6 V

10 ms < t < l s: Combine 100 μF & 400 μF in parallel to obtain

v (t ) = v ( 0 + ) e − ( t −.01) RC
3 −4 )
= 0.6e − ( t −.01) (10 ) (5 x10
v (t ) = 0.6 e −2(t −.01) V

P8.4-5

For t < 0:

Find the Thevenin equivalent of the

circuit connected to the inductor (after
t >0). First, the open circuit voltage:

40
i1 = =1 A
20 + 20
voc = 20 i1 − 5 i1 = 15 V
Next, the short circuit current:

20 i 1 = 5 i 1 ⇒ i 1 = 0
40
i sc + 0 = ⇒ i sc = 2 A
20
Then
voc 15
Rt = = = 7.5 Ω
i sc 2
Replace the circuit connected to the
inductor by its Norton equivalent
circuit. First
L 15 × 10−3 1
τ= = =
Rt 7.5 500
Next
i ( t ) = 2 − 2 e− 500 t A t >0
After t = 0, the steady state inductor
current is 2 A. 99% of 2 is 1.98.

1.98 = 2 − 2 e− 500 t ⇒ t = 9.2 ms

P8.4-6
v ( 0 ) = 5 V , v ( ∞ ) = 0 and τ = 105 × 10−6 = 0.1 s

∴ v ( t ) = 5 e−10 t V for t > 0

2.5 = 5 e −10 t1 t 1 = 0.0693 s

v (t1 )
i (t1 ) =
2.5
= = 25 μ A
100 ×10 3
100 × 103

P8.4-7
The circuit is at steady state before the switch
closes. The capacitor acts like an open circuit.
The initial condition is
⎛ 40 ⎞
v (0 +) = v (0 −) = ⎜ ⎟ 24 = 12 V
⎝ 40 + 40 ⎠
After the switch closes, replace the part of the
circuit connected to the capacitor by its
Thevenin equivalent circuit.

Recognize that
R t = 6.67 Ω and v oc = 4 V
The time constant is
1 1
τ = R t C = ( 6.67 )( 0.05 ) = 0.335 s ⇒ = 2.988  3
τ s
The capacitor voltage is

v ( t ) = ( v ( 0 + ) − v oc ) e − t τ + v oc = (12 − 4 ) e −3t + 4 = 4 + 8e −3t V for 0 ≥ t ≥ 0.5 s

When the switch opens again at time t = 0.5 the capacitor voltage is

v ( 0.5 + ) = v ( 0.5 − ) = 4 + 8e ( ) = 5.785 V

−3 0.5

After time t = 0.5 s, replace the part of the

circuit connected to the capacitor by its
Thevenin equivalent circuit.

Recognize that
R t = 20 Ω and v oc = 12 V
The time constant is
1 1
τ = R t C = 20 ( 0.05 ) = 1 ⇒ =1
τ s
The capacitor voltage is

v ( t ) = ( v ( 0.5 + ) − v oc ) e (
− t − 0.5) τ
+ v oc = ( 5.785 − 12 ) e (
−10 t − 0.5)
+ 12
−10( t − 0.5)
= 12 − 6.215e V for t ≥ 0.5 s
so
⎧ 12 V for t ≥ 0
⎪
v (t ) = ⎨ 4 + 8 e−3t V for 0 ≤ t ≤ 0.5 s
⎪ −( t − 0.5)
⎩12 − 6.215e V for t ≥ 0.5 s
Section 8-5: Stability of First Order Circuits

P8.5-1
This circuit will be stable if the Thèvenin equivalent resistance of the circuit connected to the
inductor is positive. The Thèvenin equivalent resistance of the circuit connected to the inductor
is calculated as

100 ⎫
i (t ) = iT ⎪ v T (400− R) 100
100 + 400 ⎬ ⇒ Rt = =
⎪ iT 100 + 400
vT = 400 i (t ) − R i(t ) ⎭

The circuit is stable when R < 400 Ω.

P8.5-2
The Thèvenin equivalent resistance of the circuit connected to the inductor is calculated as
Ohm’s law: v ( t ) = 1000 iT ( t )

KVL: A v ( t ) + vT ( t ) − v ( t ) − 4000 iT ( t ) = 0

∴ vT ( t ) = (1 − A) 1000 iT ( t ) + 4000 iT ( t )
vT ( t )
Rt = = ( 5 − A ) × 1000
iT ( t )
The circuit is stable when A < 5 V/V.

P8.5-3
The Thèvenin equivalent resistance of the circuit connected to the inductor is calculated as
v (t )
Ohm’s law: i ( t ) = − T
6000
v (t )
KCL: i ( t ) + B i ( t ) + i T ( t ) = T
3000
⎛ v ( t ) ⎞ vT ( t )
∴ i T ( t ) = − ( B + 1) ⎜ − T ⎟+
⎝ 6000 ⎠ 3000

=
( B + 3) vT ( t )
6000
vT ( t ) 6000
Rt = =
iT ( t ) B + 3
The circuit is stable when B > −3 A/A.
P8.5-4
The Thèvenin equivalent resistance of the circuit connected to the inductor is calculated as
v(t ) =
(1000 )( 4000 ) i (t ) = 800 i (t )
1000 + 4000
T T

vT (t ) = v(t ) − Av(t ) = (1 − A ) v(t )

vT (t )
Rt = = 800 (1 − A)
iT (t )
The circuit is stable when A < 1 V/V.
Section 8-6: The Unit Step Response

P8.6-1
The value of the input is one constant, 8 V, before time t = 0 and a different constant, −7 V, after
time t = 0. The response of the first order circuit to the change in the value of the input will be

vo ( t ) = A + B e − a t for t > 0

where the values of the three constants A, B and a are to be determined.

The values of A and B are determined from the steady state responses of this circuit
before and after the input changes value.

Capacitors act like open circuits when the input is constant and the
circuit is at steady state. Consequently, the capacitor is replaced by
an open circuit.

The value of the capacitor voltage at time t = 0, will be

equal to the steady state capacitor voltage before the input
changes. At time t = 0 the output voltage is
vo ( 0 ) = A + B e ( ) = A + B
−a 0

The steady-state circuit for

t < 0. Consequently, the capacitor voltage is labeled as A + B. Analysis
of the circuit gives

A+ B =8 V

Capacitors act like open circuits when the input is constant and the
circuit is at steady state. Consequently, the capacitor is replaced by
an open circuit.

The value of the capacitor voltage at time t = ∞, will be equal to

the steady state capacitor voltage after the input changes. At time t
= ∞ the output voltage is
The steady-state circuit for
vo ( ∞ ) = A + B e
− a (∞)
t > 0. =A

Consequently, the capacitor voltage is labeled as A.

Analysis of the circuit gives

A = -7 V
Therefore
B = 15 V
 The value of the constant a is determined from the time constant, τ, which is in turn
calculated from the values of the capacitance C and of the Thevenin resistance, Rt, of the circuit
connected to the capacitor.
1
=τ = Rt C
a

Here is the circuit used to calculate Rt.

Rt = 6 Ω
Therefore
1 1
a= = 2.5
( 6 ) ( 66.7 ×10 )
−3
s

(
(The time constant is τ = ( 6 ) 66.7 ×10−3 = 0.4 s .) )
Putting it all together:
⎧ 8 V for t ≤ 0
vo ( t ) = ⎨ − 2.5 t
⎩ −7 + 15 e V for t ≥ 0

P8.6-2
The value of the input is one constant, 3 V, before time t = 0 and a different constant, 6 V, after
time t = 0. The response of the first order circuit to the change in the value of the input will be

vo ( t ) = A + B e − a t for t > 0

where the values of the three constants A, B and a are to be determined.

The values of A and B are determined from the steady state responses of this circuit
before and after the input changes value.

Capacitors act like open circuits when the input is constant

and the circuit is at steady state. Consequently, the capacitor is
replaced by an open circuit.

The value of the capacitor voltage at time t = 0, will be

equal to the steady state capacitor voltage before the input
changes. At time t = 0 the output voltage is
The steady-state circuit for
vo ( 0 ) = A + B e
− a ( 0)
t < 0. = A+ B

Consequently, the capacitor voltage is labeled as A + B.

Analysis of the circuit gives
 6
A+ B = ( 3) = 2 V
3+ 6

Capacitors act like open circuits when the input is constant

and the circuit is at steady state. Consequently, the capacitor is
replaced by an open circuit.

The value of the capacitor voltage at time t = ∞, will be equal

to the steady state capacitor voltage after the input changes.
At time t = ∞ the output voltage is
The steady-state circuit for
vo ( ∞ ) = A + B e
t > 0. − a (∞)
=A

Consequently, the capacitor voltage is labeled as A.

Analysis of the circuit gives

6
A= ( 6) = 4 V
3+ 6
Therefore
B = −2 V

The value of the constant a is determined from the time constant, τ, which is in turn
calculated from the values of the capacitance C and of the Thevenin resistance, Rt, of the circuit
connected to the capacitor.
1
=τ = Rt C
a

Here is the circuit used to calculate Rt.

Rt =
( 3)( 6 ) = 2 Ω
3+ 6
Therefore
1 1
a= =1
( 2 )(.5 ) s

(The time constant is τ = ( 2 )( 0.5 ) = 1 s .)

Putting it all together:

⎧ 2 V for t ≤ 0
vo ( t ) = ⎨ − t
⎩ 4 − 2 e V for t ≥ 0
P8.6-3
The value of the input is one constant, −7 V, before time t = 0 and a different constant, 6 V, after
time t = 0. The response of the first order circuit to the change in the value of the input will be

vo ( t ) = A + B e − a t for t > 0

where the values of the three constants A, B and a are to be determined.

The values of A and B are determined from the steady state responses of this circuit
before and after the input changes value.
Inductors act like short circuits when the input is constant and
the circuit is at steady state. Consequently, the inductor is
replaced by a short circuit.

The value of the inductor current at time t = 0, will be

equal to the steady state inductor current before the input
changes. At time t = 0 the output current is

io ( 0 ) = A + B e
− a ( 0)
The steady-state circuit for = A+ B
t < 0.
Consequently, the inductor current is labeled as A + B.
Analysis of the circuit gives

−7
A+ B = = −1.4 A
5

Inductors act like short circuits when the input is constant and
the circuit is at steady state. Consequently, the inductor is
replaced by a short circuit.

The value of the inductor current at time t = ∞, will be equal to

the steady state inductor current after the input changes. At time
t = ∞ the output current is
The steady-state circuit for
io ( ∞ ) = A + B e
t > 0. − a (∞)
=A

Consequently, the inductor current is labeled as A.

Analysis of the circuit gives

6
A= = 1.2 A
5
Therefore
B = −2.6 V
 The value of the constant a is determined from the time constant, τ, which is in turn
calculated from the values of the inductance L and of the Thevenin resistance, Rt, of the circuit
connected to the inductor.
1 L
=τ =
a Rt

Here is the circuit used to calculate Rt.

Rt =
( 5 ) ( 4 ) = 2.22 Ω
5+ 4
Therefore
2.22 1
a= = 1.85
1.2 s

1.2
(The time constant is τ = = 0.54 s .)
2.22

Putting it all together:

⎧ −1.4 A for t ≤ 0
io ( t ) = ⎨ − 1.85 t
⎩1.2 − 2.6 e A for t ≥ 0

P8.6-4
v (t ) = 4u (t ) − u (t − 1) − u (t − 2) + u (t − 4) − u (t − 6)

P8.6-5
Assume that the circuit is at steady
state at t = 1−. Then
⎧0 t <1
⎪ v ( t ) = 4 − 4 e − ( t −1) V for 1 ≤ t ≤ 2
vs ( t ) = ⎨ 4 1<t < 2
⎪0 t >2
⎩
so v ( 2 ) = 4 − 4 e − (2 −1) = 2.53 V
τ = R C = ( 5 ×105 )( 2 ×10−6 ) = 1 s and

v ( t ) = 2.53 e − ( t − 2) V for t ≥ 2

⎧0 t ≤1
⎪
∴ v(t ) = ⎨4− 4e− (t −1) 1≤t ≤ 2
⎪2.53e− (t − 2) t ≥2
⎩
P8.6-6
The capacitor voltage is v(0−) = 10 V immediately before the switch opens at t = 0.

For 0 < t < 0.5 s the switch is open:

1 1
v ( 0 ) = 10 V, v ( ∞ ) = 0 V, τ = 3 × = s
6 2

so v ( t ) = 10 e − 2 t V

In particular, v ( 0.5 ) = 10 e
− 2 ( 0.5)
= 3.679 V

For t > 0.5 s the switch is closed:

v ( 0 ) = 3.679 V, v ( ∞ ) = 10 V, Rt = 6 || 3 = 2 Ω,
1 1
τ = 2× = s
6 3
so
v ( t ) = 10 + ( 3.679 − 10 ) e
− 3 ( t − 0.5)
V
− 3 ( t − 0.5 )
= 10 − 6.321 e V

P8.6-7
Assume that the circuit is at steady state before t = 0. Then the initial inductor current is
i(0−) = 0 A.

For 0 < t < 1 ms: The steady state inductor current will be
30
i ( ∞ ) = lim i ( t ) = ( 40 ) = 24 A
t →∞ 30 + 20

The time constant will be

50 × 10−3 1
τ= = 10−3 = s
30 + 20 1000

The inductor current is i ( t ) = 24 1 − e−1000 t ( ) A

(
In particular, i ( 0.001) = 24 1 − e−1 = 15.2 A )
For t > 1 ms
Now the initial current is i(0.001) = 15.2 A and
the steady state current is 0 A. As before, the time
constant is 1 ms. The inductor current is

i ( t ) = 15.2 e
−1000 ( t − 0.001)
A
The output voltage is

⎧⎪ 480 (1 − e −1000 t ) V t < 1 ms

v ( t ) = 20 i ( t ) = ⎨
−1000 ( t − 0.001)
⎪⎩303 e V t > 1 ms

P8.6-8
For t < 0, the circuit is:

After t = 0, replace the part of the circuit connected to the capacitor by its Thevenin equivalent
circuit to get:

vc ( t ) = −15 + ( −6 − ( −15 ) ) e
− t / ( 4000×0.00005 )

= −15 + 9 e − 5 t V

P8.6-9

The input changes abruptly at time t = 0. The voltage v(t) may

not be continuous at t = 0, but the capacitor voltage, vC(t) will
be continuous. We will find vC(t) first and then use KVL to
find v(t).
The circuit will be at steady state before t = 0 so the capacitor
will act like an open circuit.

5
v (0 +) = v (0 −) = 7 = 4.375 V
5+3

After t = 0, we replace the part of the circuit connected to the

capacitor by its Thevenin equivalent circuit.
5 5
v oc = ( 7 − 14 ) = ( −7 ) = −4.375 V
8 8
R t = 5 & 3 = 1.875 Ω

The time constant is

τ = R t C = 0.8625 s
1 1
= 1.16
τ s
So
v C ( t ) = ⎡⎣ 4.375 − ( −4.375) ⎤⎦ e−1.16t + ( −4.375) = −4.375 + 8.75e−1.16t V for t ≥ 0

Using KVL

v ( t ) = v s ( t ) − vC ( t ) = −7 − ⎡⎣−4.375 + 8.75e−1.16t ⎤⎦ = −2.625 − 8.75e−1.16t V for t > 0

P8.6-10
For t < 0

Using voltage division twice

32 30
v (t ) = 5− 5 = 0.25 V
32 + 96 120 + 30
so
v ( 0 − ) = 0.25 V
and
v ( 0 + ) = v ( 0 − ) = 0.25 V

For t > 0, find the Thevenin equivalent circuit for the part of the circuit connected to the
capacitor.
 Using voltage division twice

32 30
v oc = 20 − 20 = 5 − 4 = 1 V
32 + 96 120 + 30

R t = ( 96 || 32 ) + (120 || 30 ) = 24 + 24 = 48 Ω

then
τ = 48 × 0.0125 = 0.6 s
so
1 1
= 1.67
τ s

Now
v ( t ) = [ 0.25 − 1] e −1.67 t + 1 = 1 − 0.75e −1.67 t V for t ≥ 0

(checked: LNAP 7/1/04)

P8.6-11
For t > 0 the circuit is at steady state so the inductor acts like a short circuit:

Apply KVL to the supermesh corresponding to

the dependent source to get

−5000i b + 1000 ( 3i b ) − 5 = 0 ⇒ i b = 0.2 mA

Apply KVL to get

i ( t ) = 3i b = 0.6 mA
so
i ( 0 − ) = 0.6 mA
and
i ( 0 + ) = i ( 0 − ) = 0.6 mA
 (a) For t > 0, find the Norton equivalent circuit for the part of the circuit that is connected to the
inductor.

Apply KCL at the top node of the dependent

source to see that i b = 0 A . Then

( )
v oc = 25 − 5000 i b = 25 V

Apply KVL to the supermesh corresponding to

the dependent source to get

( )
−5000 i b + 10000 3 i b − 25 = 0 ⇒ i b = 1 mA

Apply KCL to get

i sc = 3 i b = 3 mA
Then
v oc
Rt = = 8.33 kΩ
i sc
Then
25
τ= = 3 ms
8333
so
1 1
= 333
τ s
Now
i ( t ) = [ 0.6 − 3] e −333t + 3 = 3 − 2.4e −333t mA for t ≥ 0

(checked: LNAP 7/2/04)

P8.6-12
For t > 0, the circuit is at steady state so the capacitor acts like an open circuit. We have the
following situation.

Notice that v(t) is the node voltage at node a.

Express the controlling voltage of the dependent
source as a function of the node voltage:

va = −v(t)

Apply KCL at node a:

⎛ 12 − v ( t ) ⎞ v ( t ) ⎛ 3 ⎞
−⎜ ⎟+ + ⎜ − v (t ) ⎟ = 0
⎝ 8 ⎠ 4 ⎝ 4 ⎠

−12 + v ( t ) + 2 v ( t ) − 6 v ( t ) = 0 ⇒ v ( t ) = −4 V

So v ( 0 + ) = v ( 0 − ) = −4 V

For t > 0, we find the Thevenin equivalent circuit for the part of the circuit connected to the
capacitor, i.e. the part of the circuit to the left of terminals a – b.

Notice that voc is the node voltage at node a. Express

the controlling voltage of the dependent source as a
function of the node voltage:

va = −voc

Apply KCL at node a:

⎛ 6 − voc ⎞ voc ⎛ 3 ⎞
−⎜ ⎟+ + ⎜ − voc ⎟ = 0
⎝ 8 ⎠ 4 ⎝ 4 ⎠

−6 + voc + 2 voc − 6 voc = 0 ⇒ voc = −2 V

Find Rt:

We’ll find isc and use it to calculate Rt. Notice that

the short circuit forces

va = 0

Apply KCL at node a:

 ⎛6−0⎞ 0 ⎛ 3 ⎞
−⎜ ⎟ + + ⎜ − 0 ⎟ + i sc = 0
⎝ 8 ⎠ 4 ⎝ 4 ⎠

6 3
i sc = = A
8 4

voc −2 8
Rt = = =− Ω
i sc 3 4 3

Then
⎛ 8 ⎞⎛ 3 ⎞ 1 1 1
τ = R t C = ⎜ − ⎟⎜ ⎟ = − s ⇒ = −5
⎝ 3 ⎠⎝ 40 ⎠ 5 τ s
and
v ( t ) = ( v ( 0 + ) − v oc ) e−t τ + v oc = ( −4 − ( −2 ) ) e5t + ( −2 ) = −2 (1 + e5t ) V for t ≥ 0

Notice that v(t) grows exponentially as t increases.

(checked: LNAP 7/8/04)

P8.6-13
When t < 0 and the circuit is at steady state, the inductor acts like a short circuit.

The mesh equations are

( ) ( )
2 i x + 4 i x + i (0 −) + 3i x + 6 i x + i (0 −) = 0
1i ( 0 − ) − 3 i x = 0
so
i (0 + ) = i (0 −) = 0

For t ≥ 0 , we find the Norton equivalent circuit for the part of the circuit connected to the
inductor. First, simplify the circuit using a source transformation:
Identify the open circuit voltage and short circuit current.

Apply KVL to the mesh to get:

(10 + 2 + 3) i x − 15 = 0 ⇒ ix = 1 A

Then
v oc = 3 i x = 3 V

Express the controlling current of the

CCVS in terms of the mesh currents:

i x = i1 − i sc

The mesh equations are

10 i1 + 2 ( i1 − i sc ) + 3 ( i1 − i sc ) − 15 = 0 ⇒ 15 i1 − 5 i sc = 15
and
i sc − 3 ( i1 − i sc ) = 0 ⇒ i1 =
4
i sc
3
so
⎛4 ⎞
15 ⎜ i sc ⎟ − 5 i sc = 15 ⇒ i sc = 1 A
⎝3 ⎠
The Thevenin resistance is
 3
Rt = =3Ω
1

L 5 1 1
The time constant is given by τ = = = 1.67 s so = 0.6 .
Rt 3 τ s
The inductor current is given by

i L ( t ) = ( i ( 0 + ) − i sc ) e−t τ + i sc = ( 0 − 1) e−0.6t + 1 = 1 − e−0.6t A for t ≥ 0

P8.6-14
When t < 0 and the circuit is at steady state, the
inductor acts like a short circuit. The initial condition
is
0 2
i (0 +) = i (0 −) = + = 0.02 A
150 100

For t ≥ 0 , we find the Norton equivalent circuit for the part of the circuit connected to the
inductor. First, simplify the circuit using source transformations:

i sc = 20 + 40 = 60 mA

100 ×150
R t = 100 ||150 = = 60 Ω
100 + 150

L 2 1 1
The time constant is given by τ = = = 0.0333 s so = 30 .
R t 60 τ s
The inductor current is given by

i L ( t ) = ( i ( 0 + ) − i sc ) e−t τ + i sc = ( 20 − 60 ) e−30t + 60 = 60 − 40 e−30t mA for t ≥ 0

(checked: LNAP 7/15/04)

P8.6-15

When t < 0 and the circuit is at steady state, the

capacitor acts like an open circuit. The 0 A current
source also acts like an open circuit. The initial
condition is
v (0 + ) = v (0 −) = 0 V

For t ≥ 0 , we find the Thevenin equivalent circuit for the part of the circuit connected to the
capacitor.

⎡ 170
( 20 ) ⎤⎥ 10 − ⎡⎢ ( 20 )⎤⎥ 50
30
voc = ⎢
⎣170 + 30 ⎦ ⎣170 + 30 ⎦

170(20)(10) − 30(20)(50) 4000

= = = 20 V
200 200

Rt = 8 +
( 20 + 120 ) (10 + 50 ) = 50 Ω
( 20 + 120 ) + (10 + 50 )

( )
The time constant is τ = R t C = ( 50 ) 10−3 = 0.05 s s so
1
τ
= 20
1
s
.
The capacitor voltage is given by

(
v ( t ) = ( v ( 0 + ) − v oc ) e−t τ + v oc = ( 0 − 20 ) e−20t + 20 = 20 1 − e−20t ) V for t ≥ 0
P8.6-16

When t < 0 and the circuit is at steady

state, the capacitor acts like an open circuit.
The 0 A current source also acts like an
open circuit.

After a couple of source transformations,

the initial condition is calculated as

18
v (0 + ) = v (0 −) = 16 = 10.667 V
9 + 18

For t ≥ 0 , we find the Thevenin equivalent circuit for the part of the circuit connected to the
capacitor. Using source transformations, reduce the circuit as follows.

Now recognize R t = 10 Ω and v oc = 4 V .

( )
The time constant is τ = R t C = (10 ) 20 ×10−3 = 0.2 s s so
1
τ
=5
1
s
.
The capacitor voltage is given by

v ( t ) = ( v ( 0 + ) − v oc ) e−t τ + v oc = (10.667 − 4 ) e−5t + 4 = 4 + 6.667 e−5t V for t ≥ 0

(checked: LNAP 7/15/04)

P8.6-17

When t < 0 and the circuit is at steady state, the

inductor acts like a short circuit. The 0 V
voltage source also acts like a short circuit.

After a replacing series and parallel resistors by

equivalent resistors, the equivalent resistors,
current source and short circuit are all
connected in parallel. Consequently

i (0 + ) = i (0 −) = 2 A

For t ≥ 0 , we find the Thevenin equivalent circuit for the part of the circuit connected to the
capacitor.

Replace series and parallel resistors by an

equivalent resistor.

18 & (12 + 24 ) = 12 Ω

Do a source transformation, then replace series

voltage sources by an equivalent voltage
source.
Do two more source transformations.

Now recognize R t = 8 Ω and i sc = 3 A .

The time constant is given by

L 2 1 1
τ= = = 0.25 s so = 4 .
Rt 8 τ s

The inductor current is given by

i L ( t ) = ( i ( 0 + ) − i sc ) e−t τ + i sc = ( 2 − 3) e−4t + 3 = 3 − e−4t A for t ≥ 0

(checked: LNAP 7/15/04)

P8.6-18
Simplify the circuit by replacing the parallel capacitors by an equivalent capacitor and by doing a
couple of source transformations

For t < 0 the circuit is at steady state so the

capacitor acts like an open circuit. The voltage
source voltage is 6.4 V, so

v ( 0 + ) = v ( 0 − ) = 6.4 V

For t > 0 we find the Thevenin equivalent circuit of the part of the circuit connected to the
capacitor. In this case we recognize the voc = 16 V and Rt = 50 Ω.

The time constant is

τ = R t C = ( 50 ) ( 8 ×10−3 ) = 0.4 s
1 1
⇒ = 2.5
τ s
Then
−t
v ( t ) = ( v ( 0 + ) − v oc ) e τ + v oc = ( 6.4 − 16 ) e −2.5t + 16 = 16 − 9.6e −2.5t V for t ≥ 0

(checked: LNAP 7/12/04)

P8.6-19
For t < 0 i = 0.

For 0 < t < 0.2 s KCL: −5 + v / 2 + i = 0 ⎫

⎪ di
di ⎬ + 10i = 50
also: v = 0.2 ⎪⎭ dt
dt
∴ i (t ) = 5+ Ae −10t
i (0) = 0 = 5+ A ⇒ A = −5
so we have i (t ) = 5 (1− e −10t ) A

For t > 0.2 s i (0.2) = 4.32 A ∴ i(t ) = 4.32e−10(t −.2) A

P8.6-20
Simplify the circuit by replacing the series inductors by an equivalent inductor. Then, after a
couple of source transformations, we have

For t < 0 the circuit is at steady state and so the

inductor acts like a short circuit. The voltage
source voltage is −6 V so

i ( 0 + ) = i ( 0 − ) = −60 mA

For t > 0 we find the Norton equivalent circuit for the part of the circuit connected to the
inductor. In this case we recognize voc = 9V and Rt = 100 Ω so isc = 90 mA.

The time constant is

L 20 1 1
τ= = = 0.2 s ⇒ =5
R t 100 τ s
Then
i ( t ) = ( i ( 0 + ) − i sc ) e−t τ + i sc = ( −60 − 90 ) e−5t + 90 = 90 − 150e−5t mA for t ≥ 0

(checked: LNAP 7/12/04)

P8.6-21
Simplify the circuit by replacing the parallel inductors by an equivalent inductor. Then, after
doing a couple of source transformations, we have
 For t < 0 the circuit is at steady state and the
inductor acts like a short circuit. The voltage
source voltage is 12 V so

i ( 0 + ) = i ( 0 − ) = 0.2 A

For t > 0 we find the Norton equivalent circuit for the part of the circuit connected to the
inductor. In this case, we recognize voc = 2.4 V and Rt = 60 Ω so isc = 0.04 A.

The time constant is

L 4 1 1 1
τ= = = s ⇒ = 15
R t 60 15 τ s
Then
i ( t ) = ( i ( 0 + ) − i sc ) e−t τ + i sc = ( 0.2 − 0.04 ) e−15t + 0.04 = 40 + 160e−15t mA

(checked: LNAP 7/13/04)

P8.6-22
Simplify the circuit by replacing the series capacitors by an equivalent capacitor. Then, after
doing some source transformations, we have

For t < 0 the circuit is at steady state so the

capacitor acts like an open circuit. The voltage
source voltage is 8 V so

v (0 + ) = v (0 −) = 8 V

For t > 0 we find the Thevenin equivalent circuit of the part of the circuit connected to the
capacitor. In this case we recognize voc = 40 V and Rt = 8 Ω.

The time constant is

τ = R t C = ( 8) ( 60 ×10−3 ) = 0.48
1 1
⇒ = 2.08
τ s
Then
v ( t ) = ( v ( 0 + ) − v oc ) e−t τ + v oc = ( 8 − 40 ) e−2.08t + 40 = 40 − 32e−2.08t V for t ≥ 0

(checked: LNAP 7/13/04)

P8.6-23

The resistor voltage, v(t), may not be

continuous at time t = 0. The inductor will be
continuous. We will find the inductor current
first and then find v(t). Label the inductor
current as i(t).

For t < 0 the circuit is at steady state and the

inductor acts like a short circuit. The initial
condition is

i (0 + ) = i (0 −) = 0 A

For t > 0 use source transformations to

simplify the part of the circuit connected to the
inductor until is a Norton equivalent circuit.

Recognize that

R t = 2 Ω and i sc = 1.333 A

L 3 1 1
The time constant is τ= = ⇒ = 0.667
Rt 2 τ s

Then (
i ( t ) = ( i ( 0 + ) − i sc ) e−t τ + i sc = 1.333 1 − e−0.667t ) A for t ≥ 0

Returning to the original circuit we see that

d
v (t ) 3 i (t )
d
= i ( t ) + dt = i (t ) + i (t )
2 3 dt
= 1.333 (1 − e −0.667 t ) + ( −0.667 )(1.333) ( −e −0.667 t ) = 1.333 − 0.4439e −0.667

Finally v ( t ) = 2.667 − 0.889e 0.667 t V for t > 0

(checked: LNAP 7/14/04)
P8.6-24

Label the inductor current, i(t).

We will find i(t) first, then find
v(t).

For t < 0 the circuit is at steady

state and the inductor acts like a
short circuit. The initial condition
is
⎛ 3 ⎞
i (0 +) = i (0 −) = ⎜ ⎟2 =1 A
⎝ 3+3⎠

For t > 0 use source

transformations to simplify the
part of the circuit connected to the
inductor until it is a Norton
equivalent circuit.

Recognize that

R t = 2 Ω and i sc = 3 A

The time constant is

L 0.25 1 1
τ= = = 0.125 s ⇒ =8
Rt 2 τ s
Then
i ( t ) = ( i ( 0 + ) − i sc ) e−t τ + i sc = (1 − 3) e−8t + 3 = 3 − 2e−8t A for t ≥ 0

Returning to the original circuit

⎛ d ⎞
⎜ 0.25 i ( t ) ⎟
⎟ + 0.25 i ( t ) = 3i ( t ) + 0.5 i ( t ) = 3 ( 3 − 2e ) + 0.5 (16e )
d d
v (t ) = 3⎜ i (t ) + dt −8t −8t

3 dt dt
⎜⎜ ⎟⎟
⎝ ⎠
= 9 + 2 e−8t V for t > 0

(checked: LNAP 7/26/04)

P8.6-25

Label the capacitor voltage, v(t). W will

find v(t) first then find vo(t).

For t < 0 the circuit is at steady state and

the capacitor acts like an open circuit. The
initial condition is

v (0 + ) = v (0 −) = 6 V

For t > 0 we replace series and then

parallel resistors by equivalent resistors in
order to replace the part of the circuit
connected to the capacitor by its Thevenin
equivalent circuit.

We recognize
R t = 4 Ω and v oc = 12 V
The time constant is
1 1
τ = R t C = 4 ( 0.125) = 0.5 s ⇒ =2
τ s
The capacitor voltage is given by
−t
v ( t ) = ( v ( 0 + ) − v oc ) e τ + v oc = ( 6 − 12 ) e −2 t + 12 = 12 − 6e −2 t V for t ≥ 0

Returning to the original circuit and applying KCL we see

d 12 − v ( t ) v o ( t )
0.125 v (t ) = +
dt 6 2
so
v (t )
= 0.25 (12e −2t ) − 4 + 4 − 2e−2t = e −2t V for t > 0
d
v o ( t ) = 0.25 v (t ) − 4 +
dt 3

(checked: LNAP 7/26/04)

P8.6-26

Label the inductor current as i(t). We will find i(t) first

then use it to find v(t).

For t < 0 the circuit is at steady state and the inductor

acts like a short circuit. The initial condition is

i (0 + ) = i (0 −) = 0 A

For t > 0 we replace series and parallel resistors by

equivalent resistors. Then the part of the circuit
connected to the inductor will be a Thevenin equivalent
circuit.
We recognize
Rt = 2 Ω and v oc = 12 V
so
v oc
i sc = =6A
Rt
The time constant is
L 0.5 1 1
τ= = = 0.25 ⇒ =4
Rt 2 τ s
The inductor current is given by

(
i ( t ) = ( i ( 0 + ) − i sc ) e−t τ + i sc = ( 0 − 6 ) e−4t + 6 = 6 1 − e−4t ) A for t ≥ 0

Returning to the original circuit and applying KCL we see

 d
i ( t ) − 12 v t
i (t ) +
0.5
dt =
()
3 4
so
⎛ 2⎞
i ( t ) − 16 = 24 (1 − e−4t ) + ⎜ ⎟ ( 24e−4t ) − 16 = 8 − 8e−4t V for t > 0
2d
v ( t ) = 4i ( t ) +
3 dt ⎝ 3⎠

(checked: LNAP 7/26/04)

P8.6-27
Apply KCL at the inverting input of the op amp to get

v o (t ) − v (t ) v (t ) ⎛ R2 ⎞
= ⇒ v o ( t ) = ⎜1 + ⎟ v (t )
R2 1000 ⎝ 1000 ⎠

We will determine the capacitor voltage first and then use it to determine the output voltage.

When t < 0 and the circuit is at steady state,

the capacitor acts like an open circuit. Apply
KCL at the noninverting input of the op amp to
get
3 − v (0 −)
= 0 ⇒ v (0 −) = 3 V
R1
The initial condition is

v (0 + ) = v (0 −) = 3 V

For t ≥ 0 , we find the Thevenin equivalent circuit for the part of the circuit connected to the
capacitor.
 2 − voc 2 voc
= 0 ⇒ voc = 2 V = i sc ⇒ Rt = = R1
R1 R1 i sc

( )
The time constant is τ = R t C = R t 10−6 . From the given equation for v o ( t ) ,
1
τ
= 50
1
s
, so

106
R t (10 ) =
−6 1
⇒ R1 = R t = = 20 kΩ
50 50

The capacitor voltage is given by

v ( t ) = ( v ( 0 ) − v oc ) e−t τ + v oc = ( 3 − 2 ) e−50t + 2 = 2 + e−50t V for t ≥ 0

R2
So v o (t ) = 5 v (t ) ⇒ 5 = 1 + ⇒ R 2 = 4 kΩ
1000

(checked LNAPTR 7/31/04)

Section 8-7 The Response of an RL or RC Circuit to a Nonconstant Source

P8.7-1
Assume that the circuit is at steady state before t = 0:

KVL : 12ix + 3(3 ix ) + 38.5 = 0 ⇒ ix = −1.83 A

Then vc (0− ) = −12 ix = 22 V = vc (0+ )

After t = 0:

KVL : 12i (t ) − 8e −5t + v ( t ) = 0

x c
dv ( t ) 1 dvc ( t )
KCL : −ix ( t )−2ix ( t ) + (1 36) c = 0 ⇒ ix ( t ) =
dt 108 dt
⎡ 1 dvc ( t ) ⎤
∴ 12 ⎢ ⎥ − 8e
−5t
+ v (t ) = 0
⎣108 dt ⎦ c

dv (t )
c + 9v (t ) = 72e−5t ⇒ v (t ) = Ae −9t
dt c cn
Try v (t ) = Be −5t & substitute into the differential equation ⇒ B = 18
cf
∴ v (t ) = Ae −9t + 18 e−5t
c
v (0) = 22 = A + 18 ⇒ A = 4
c
∴ v (t ) = 4e−9t + 18e−5t V
c
P8.7-2
Assume that the circuit is at steady state before t = 0:

12
iL (0+ ) = iL (0− ) = = 3A
4

After t = 0:

v( t ) −12 v( t )
KCL : + iL ( t ) + = 6 e−2t
4 2
di ( t )
also : v ( t ) = (2 / 5) L
dt
3⎡ di ( t ) ⎤
iL ( t ) + ⎢(2 / 5) L ⎥ = 3 + 6 e−2t
4⎣ dt ⎦
diL ( t ) 10
+ iL ( t ) = 10 + 20 e−2t
dt 3

− (10 / 3)t
∴ in (t ) = Ae , try i f (t ) = B + Ce−2t , substitute into the differential equation,

and then equating like terms ⇒ B =3, C =15 ⇒ i f (t ) =3+15 e−2t

∴iL (t ) =in (t ) + i f (t ) = Ae −(10 / 3)t + 3+15e −2t , iL (0) = 3 = A + 3 + 15 ⇒ A = −15
∴ iL (t ) = −15e− (10 / 3) t + 3 + 15e−2t
diL
Finally, v(t ) =( 2 / 5 ) = 20 e − (10 / 3) t −12 e −2t V
dt

P8.7-3
Assume that the circuit is at steady state before t = 0:

⎛ 6 ⎞
Current division: iL (0− ) = −5 ⎜ ⎟ = −1 mA
⎝ 6 + 24 ⎠
After t = 0:

diL ( t )
KVL: − 25sin 4000 t + 24iL ( t ) + .008 =0
dt
di L ( t ) 25
+ 3000i L ( t ) = sin4000t
dt .008

in (t ) = Ae −3000t , try i f (t ) = B cos 4000t + C sin 4000t , substitute into the differential equation
and equate like terms ⇒ B = −1/ 2, C = 3 / 8 ⇒ i f (t ) = −0.5cos 4000 t + 0.375 sin 4000 t
iL (t ) = in (t ) + i f (t ) = Ae −3000t − 0.5cos 4000 t + 0.375 sin 4000 t
iL (0+ ) = iL (0− ) =−10−3 = A− 0.5 ⇒ A ≅ 0.5
∴ iL (t ) = 0.5 e −3000t − 0.5cos 4000 t + 0.375 sin 4000 t mA
but v(t ) = 24iL (t ) = 12 e −3000t − 12 cos 4000t + 9sin 4000t V

P8.7-4
Assume that the circuit is at steady state before t = 0:

Replace the circuit connected to the capacitor by its Thevenin equivalent (after t=0) to get:

⎛ dvc ( t ) ⎞ dvc ( t )
30 dt ⎟ c ( )
KVL: − 10 cos 2t + 15 ⎜ 1 +v t =0 ⇒ + 2vc ( t ) = 20 cos 2t
⎝ ⎠ dt

vn (t ) = Ae−2t , Try v f (t ) = B cos 2t + C sin 2t & substitute into the differential equation to get
B = C = 5 ⇒ v f (t ) = 5cos 2t + 5sin 2t. ∴ vc (t ) = vn (t ) + v f (t ) = Ae−2t + 5cos 2t + 5sin 2t
Now vc (0) = 0 = A + 5 ⇒ A = −5 ⇒ vc (t ) = −5e−2t + 5cos 2t + 5sin 2t V
P8.7-5
Assume that the circuit is at steady state before t = 0. There are no sources in the circuit so i(0) =
0 A. After t = 0, we have:
di ( t )
KVL : − 10sin100t + i ( t ) + 5 + v (t ) = 0
dt
v( t )
Ohm's law : i ( t ) =
8
dv( t )
∴ +18 v( t ) = 160sin100t
dt

∴ vn (t ) = Ae−18t , try v f (t ) = B cos100t + C sin100t , substitute into the differential equation

and equate like terms ⇒ B = −1.55 & C = 0.279 ⇒ v f (t ) = −1.55cos100t + 0.279sin100t
∴ v(t ) = vn (t ) + v f (t ) = Ae−18t −1.55 cos100 t + 0.279 sin100 t
v(0) = 8 i (0) = 0 ⇒ v (0) = 0 = A−1.55 ⇒ A = 1.55
so v(t ) = 1.55e−18t −1.55cos100t + 0.279 sin100t V

P8.7-6
Assume that the circuit is at steady state
before t = 0.
vo ( t ) = −vc ( t )

vC (0+ ) = vC (0− ) = −10 V

After t = 0, we have
v (t ) 8 e −5 t
i (t ) = s = = 0.533 e −5 t mA
15000 15000

The circuit is represented by the differential

dv ( t ) vC ( t )
equation: i ( t ) = C C + . Then
dt R

dvc ( t ) dvc ( t )
( 0.533 ×10 ) e
−3 −5 t
= ( 0.25 ×10−6 )
dt
+ (10−3 ) vc ( t ) ⇒
dt
+ 4000 vc ( t ) = 4000 e−5t

Then vn ( t ) = Ae−4000t . Try v f ( t ) = Be−5t . Substitute into the differential equation to get

(
d B e−5t ) + 4000 ( B e ) = 4000 e
−5t −5 t
⇒ B=
4000
= −1.00125 ≅ −1
dt −3995
 vC (t ) = v f ( t ) + vn ( t ) = e−5t + Ae−4000t

vC (0) = −10 = 1 + A ⇒ A = −11 ⇒ vC (t ) = 1 e −2t − 11 e −4000t V

Finally
vo (t ) = − vC (t ) = 11 e−4000t −1 e −5t V , t ≥ 0

P8.7-7
From the graph iL (t ) = 1 t mA . Use KVL to get
4

diL (t ) diL (t )
(1) iL (t ) + 0.4 = v1 (t ) ⇒ + 2.5 iL (t ) = 2.5 v1 (t )
dt dt
Then
di ⎡ 1 ⎤
t + 2.5 ⎡ 1 t ⎤ = 2.5 v1 (t ) ⇒ v1 = 0.1+ 0.25t V
dt ⎣ 4 ⎦ ⎣4 ⎦

P8.7-8
Assume that the circuit is at steady state before
t = 0.

2
v (0+ ) = v (0− ) = 30 = 10 V
4+ 2

After t = 0 we have

5 d v( t ) ⎛ 1 d v( t ) ⎞
KVL : + v (t ) + 4 ⎜ −i ⎟ = 30
2 dt ⎝ 2 dt ⎠
⎛ 1 d v( t ) ⎞
2 i ( t ) + 4⎜ i ( t ) − ⎟ + 30 = e
−3t

⎝ 2 dt ⎠

The circuit is represented by the differential equation

d v( t ) 6 6 2
+ v (t ) = (10 + e −3t )
dt 19 19 3

−( 6 /19 ) t
Take vn ( t ) = Ae . Try , v f ( t ) = B + Ce−3t , substitute into the differential equation to get
 6 60 4 −3t
−3Ce −3t + ( B + Ce −3t ) = + e
19 19 19
Equate coefficients to get
4 4
B = 10 , C = − ⇒ v f ( t ) = e −3t + Ae− (6 /19) t
51 51
Then
4 −3t
v ( t ) = vn ( t ) + v f ( t ) = 10 − e + Ae − (6 /19) t
51
Finally
4 4
vc (0+ ) = 10 V, ⇒ 10 = 10 − +A ⇒ A=
51 51
4 − (6 /19) t −3t
∴ vc (t ) = 10+ (e −e ) V
51

P8.7-9
We are given v(0) = 0. From part b of the
figure:
⎧5t 0 ≤ t ≤ 2 s
vs ( t ) = ⎨
⎩10 t > 2s

Find the Thevenin equivalent of the part of the

circuit that is connected to the capacitor:

The open circuit voltage: The short circuit current:

(ix=0 because of the short across the right 2 Ω

resistor)

Replace the part of the circuit connected to the

capacitor by its Thevenin equivalent: KVL:
dv( t )
2 + v ( t ) − vs ( t ) = 0
dt
dv( t ) v ( t ) vs ( t )
+ =
dt 2 2

vn ( t ) = Ae−0.5 t
For 0 < t < 2 s, vs ( t ) = 5 t . Try v f ( t ) = B + C t . Substituting into the differential equation and
equating coefficients gives B = −10 and C =5. Therefore v ( t ) = 5t − 10 + A e−t / 2 . Using v(0) = 0,
we determine that A =10. Consequently, v ( t ) = 5t + 10(e −t / 2 − 1) .
At t = 2 s, v( 2 ) = 10e −1 = 3.68 .

Next, for t > 2 s, vs ( t ) = 10 V . Try v f ( t ) = B . Substituting into the differential equation and
equating coefficients gives B = 10. Therefore v ( t ) = 10 + Ae . Using v ( 2 ) = 3.68 , we
− (t −2) / 2

determine that A = −6.32. Consequently, v ( t ) = 10 − 6.32 e

− (t −2) / 2
.

P8.7-10

⎡ d v (t ) ⎤
KVL: − kt + Rs ⎢C C ⎥ + vC ( t ) = 0
⎣ dt ⎦
d vC ( t ) 1 k
⇒ + vC ( t ) = t
dt Rs C Rs C

vc ( t ) = vn ( t ) + v f ( t ) , where vc ( t ) = Ae− t / Rs C . Try v f ( t ) = B0 + B1 t

1 k
& plug into D.E. ⇒ B1 + [ B0 + B1t ] = t thus B0 = −kRs C , B1 = k .
Rs C Rs C
Now we have vc (t ) = Ae− t / Rs C + k (t − Rs C ). Use vc (0) = 0 to get 0 = A − kRs C ⇒ A = kRs C.
∴ vc (t ) = k[t − Rs C (1− e −t / Rs C )]. Plugging in k =1000 , Rs = 625 kΩ & C = 2000 pF get
vc (t ) = 1000[t − 1.25 × 10−3 (1 − e −800 t )]

v(t) and vC(t) track well on a millisecond time scale.

P8.7-11
For t > 0, find the Thevenin equivalent circuit for the part of the circuit connected to the
capacitor.

Using voltage division twice

32 30
v (t ) = 5− 5 = 0.25 V
32 + 96 120 + 30
so
v ( 0 − ) = 0.25 V
and
v ( 0 + ) = v ( 0 − ) = 0.25 V

R t = ( 96 || 32 ) + (120 || 30 ) = 24 + 24 = 48 Ω
τ = 48 × 0.0125 = 0.6 s
1 1
= 1.67
τ s

Now
v ( t ) = [ 0.25 − 1] e−1.67t + 1 = 1 − 0.75e−1.67t V for t ≥ 0

(checked: LNAP 7/1/04)

P8.7-12
For t > 0 the circuit is at steady state so the in doctor acts like a short circuit:
Apply KVL to the supermesh corresponding to
the dependent source to get

−5000i b + 1000 ( 3i b ) − 5 = 0 ⇒ i b = 0.2 mA

Apply KVL to get

i ( t ) = 3i b = 0.6 mA
so
i ( 0 − ) = 0.6 mA
and
i ( 0 + ) = i ( 0 − ) = 0.6 mA

(a) For t > 0, find the Norton equivalent circuit for the part of the circuit that is connected to the
inductor.

Apply KCL at the top node of the dependent

source to see that i b = 0 A . Then

( )
v oc = 25 − 5000 i b = 25 V

Apply KVL to the supermesh corresponding to

the dependent source to get

( )
−5000 i b + 10000 3 i b − 25 = 0 ⇒ i b = 1 mA

Apply KCL to get

i sc = 3 i b = 3 mA
Then
v oc
Rt = = 8.33 kΩ
i sc

Then
25
τ= = 3 ms
8333
so
1 1
= 333
τ s
Now
i ( t ) = [ 0.6 − 3] e−333t + 3 = 3 − 2.4e −333t mA for t ≥ 0

(checked: LNAP 7/2/04)

P8.7-13
is ( t ) = 10 e−5t for t > 0
KCL at top node: −10e −5t + i ( t ) + v( t ) /10 = 0
di ( t ) di ( t )
Now v ( t ) = 0.1 ⇒ +100 i ( t ) = 1000 e −5t
dt dt

Natural response: in (t ) = Ae −t τ where τ = L R t ∴ in (t ) = Ae −100t

Forced response: try i f (t ) = Be −5t & plug into the differential equation
−5 Be −5t + 100 Be −5t = 1000e −5t ⇒ B = 10.53
−100 t −5 t
Complete response: i (t ) = Ae + 10.53e
− +
Now i (0 ) = i (0 ) = 0 = A + 10.53 ⇒ A = −10.53
∴ i (t ) = 10.53 (e −5t − e −100t ) A

P8.7-14
When the switch is closed, the inductor current is iL = vs / R = vs . When the switch opens, the
inductor current is forced to change instantaneously. The energy stored in the inductor
instantaneously dissipates in the spark. To prevent the spark, add a resistor (say 1 kΩ) across the
switch terminals.
Section 8.9 How Can We Check…?

P8.9-1
First look at the circuit. The initial capacitor voltage is vc(0) = 8 V. The steady-state capacitor
voltage is vc = 4 V.

We expect an exponential transition from 8 volts to 4 volts. That’s consistent with the plot.

Next, let’s check the shape of the exponential transition. The Thevenin resistance of the part of
the circuit connected to the capacitor is R t =
( 2000 )( 4000 ) = 4 kΩ so the time constant is
2000 + 4000 3
⎛4 ⎞
τ = R t C = ⎜ × 103 ⎟ ( 0.5 × 10−6 ) = ms . Thus the capacitor voltage is
2
⎝3 ⎠ 3
vc (t ) = 4 e − t 0.67
+4 V

where t has units of ms. To check the point labeled on the plot, let t1 = 1.33 ms. Then

⎛ 1.33 ⎞
−⎜ ⎟
vc (t1 ) = 4 e ⎝ .67 ⎠ + 4 = 4.541 ~ 4.5398 V
So the plot is correct.

P8.9-2
The initial and steady-state inductor currents shown on the plot agree with the values obtained
from the circuit.

Next, let’s check the shape of the exponential transition. The Thevenin resistance of the part of
the circuit connected to the inductor is R t =
( 2000 )( 4000 ) = 4 kΩ so the time constant is
2000 + 4000 3
L 5 15
τ= = = ms . Thus inductor current is
R t 4 ×103 4
3
iL (t ) − 2 e− t 3.75 + 5 mA

where t has units of ms. To check the point labeled on the plot, let t1 = 3.75 ms. Then

⎛ 3.75 ⎞
−⎜ ⎟
iL (t1 ) = −2 e ⎝ 3.75 ⎠ + 5 = 4.264 mA ≠ 4.7294 mA

so the plot does not correspond to this circuit.

P8.9-3
Notice that the steady-state inductor current does not depend on the inductance, L. The initial
and steady-state inductor currents shown on the plot agree with the values obtained from the
circuit.

After t = 0
L
So I sc = 5 mA and τ =
1333

The inductor current is given by iL (t ) = −2e −1333t L

+ 5 mA , where t has units of seconds and L
has units of Henries. Let t 1 = 3.75 ms, then

4.836 = iL (t1 ) = −2 e −(1333)⋅(0.00375) L + 5 = −2e−5 L + 5

so
4.836 −5
= e −5 L
−2
and
−5
L= =2 H
⎛ 4.836 −5 ⎞
ln ⎜ ⎟
⎝ −2 ⎠
is the required inductance.

P8.9-4
First consider the circuit. When t < 0 and the circuit is at steady-state:

For t > 0

So
R2 R1 R2 RRC
Voc = ( A + B ) , Rt = and τ = 1 2
R1 + R2 R1 + R2 R1 + R2
Next, consider the plot. The initial capacitor voltage is (vc (0)=) –2 and the steady-state capacitor
voltage is (Voc =) 4 V, so
vC (t ) = − 6e −t τ + 4
At t 1 = 1.333 ms
3.1874 = vC (t1 ) = − 6 e − 0.001333 τ + 4
so
−0.001333
τ = = 0.67 ms
⎛ −4 + 3.1874 ⎞
ln ⎜ ⎟
⎝ −6 ⎠

Combining the information obtained from the circuit with the information obtained from the plot
gives
R2 R2 R1 R2C
A = −2 , ( A + B) = 4 , = 0.67 ms
R1 + R2 R1 + R2 R1 + R2

There are many ways that A, B, R , R , and C can be chosen to satisfy these equations. Here is
1 2

one convenient way. Pick R = 3000 and R = 6000. Then

1 2

2A
= −2 ⇒ A = − 3
3
2( A+ B)
= 4 ⇒ B −3 = 6 ⇒ B = 9
3
2 1
2000 ⋅ C = ms ⇒ μF = C
3 3