Current Divider Rule
The Current Divider Rule is used to calculate how the total current is distributed among parallel branches.
In a parallel circuit, the voltage across each branch remains the same, while the current divides inversely according to the branch resistance. A branch with lower resistance carries more current, whereas a branch with higher resistance carries less current.
Formula:
I₁ = Iₛ × R₂ / (R₁ + R₂)
I₂ = Iₛ × R₁ / (R₁ + R₂)
Where:
- Iₛ = Total supply current
- I₁, I₂ = Branch currents
- R₁, R₂ = Resistance values
Total Current:
Iₛ = I₁ + I₂