Question
Consider the circuit in Figure 21.53, and suppose that the emfs are unknown and the currents are given to be $I_1 = 5.00 \textrm{ A}$ , $I_2 = 3.0 \textrm{ A}$ , and $I_3 = -2.00 \textrm{ A}$. (a) Could you find the emfs? (b) What is wrong with the assumptions?
Question Image
1. No, since $I_1 \neq I_2 + I_3$
2. Since the junction rule is violated, this circuit can not be solved with the information given.
Solution Video

# OpenStax College Physics Solution, Chapter 21, Problem 41 (Problems & Exercises) (0:30)

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Video Transcript

This is College Physics Answers with Shaun Dychko. These values for the currents given to us for this circuit are not possible because if you apply the junction rule at point A, the currents going into it have to equal the total currents coming out. But the current <i>I one</i> being five amps does not equal three plus negative two. So since the junction rule is violated the circuit can't be solved with these numbers given.