Current divider

In electronics, a current divider is a simple linear circuit that produces an output current (IX)
that is a fraction of its input current (IT). Current division refers to the splitting of current
between the branches of the divider. The currents in the various branches of such a circuit
will always divide in such a way as to minimize the total energy expended.

Figure 1: Schematic of an electrical circuit illustrating current division. Notation RT. refers to the total resistance of the
circuit to the right of resistor RX.

The formula describing a current divider is similar in form to that for the voltage divider.
However, the ratio describing current division places the impedance of the considered
branches in the denominator, unlike voltage division where the considered impedance is in
the numerator. This is because in current dividers, total energy expended is minimized,
resulting in currents that go through paths of least impedance, hence the inverse relationship
with impedance. Comparatively, voltage divider is used to satisfy Kirchhoff's Voltage Law
(KVL). The voltage around a loop must sum up to zero, so the voltage drops must be divided
evenly in a direct relationship with the impedance.

To be specific, if two or more impedances are in parallel, the current that enters the
combination will be split between them in inverse proportion to their impedances (according
to Ohm's law). It also follows that if the impedances have the same value the current is split
equally.

Current divider

General case

Using Admittance

Loading effect

References and notes

See also

External links

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Last edited 6 months ago by 18.31.29.143