KIRCHHOFF’S LAW

Mesh Current Method

This method is used by drawing an assumed current in a mesh (mesh like in a screen
doors, wire mesh). The mesh is the simplest possible closed path. This current (mesh) does not
divide at branch point which makes it different from the branch current.

Topic Outcomes

1. Define Mesh Current

2. Draw required mesh for the circuit to be analysed
3. Solve problem using mesh current method

Procedure in using mesh to solve problem in a circuit

1. Determine the number of mesh current which is also the number of equation
2. Draw the meshes in the circuit
3. Write equation according to Kirchhoff’s Voltage Law (KVL) base on the mesh.
4. Consider any voltage drops produce by its own mesh current to be positive, while
voltage drop with mesh current opposing it to be negative.
5. Write collectively (add) as one voltage drop (by adding all the resistance) in the
superimposed mesh
6. Solve problem using mesh current method

Steps in using Mesh Current Method

Example 1. Determine the voltages and currents in Figure 1

1. Step 1 – 2. Draw the meshes (see mesh current loops in the Figure 1). There will be two
mesh currents required in the given circuit, IA and IB

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 V1 V2

IA V5
IB

V4 V3

Figure 1. Mesh Currents IA and IB

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3. Write KVL in accordance with direction of the mesh

Writing KVL

In loop IA For loop IB Eq. 1

Eq. 2

The applied voltage (36V; 24V) should be the algebraic sum of the voltage drops

4. Consider any voltage drops produce by its own mesh current to be positive, while the
opposing mesh will be negative.

• In loop A, mesh current IA is superimposed therefore it is positive (+) while IB

since it opposes IA is negative (-)

• Likewise in loop B, IB is positive while IA is negative

Eq. 1 Eq. 2

5. Write collectively the as one voltage drop by adding the resistances in the mesh.

• In Mesh IA, 2Ω, 12Ω, and 4Ω are added with the sum of 18Ω

• In Mesh IB, 3Ω, 12Ω, and 9 Ω are combined; 24Ω

6. Solve the problem using Mesh current method

Eliminate IB and solve IA

2
 (2)

Substitute IA in either of the equation; Substitute the value of IA in Equation 2 to solve IB

;
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Finding the branch currents and voltage drops

Example 2. Determine the voltage drops in Figure 2 using mesh current method

Figure: Solve V1, V2 and V3

IA = 0.667A; IB = 7.33A

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 Prepared by:

EDMUNDO G. FRIAS

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