JEE Physics · Hard

Current Electricity: Kirchhoff for Complex Network MCQ

Solve this quality-checked JEE multiple-choice question, then review the correct answer and explanation.

Timer-based practiceDetailed answer reviewMobile-friendly flow
Kirchhoff for Complex NetworkHardQuestion 31696

Question

A bridge circuit has 5 resistors. The number of independent equations needed to solve it using Kirchhoff's laws is:
  1. A
    5
  2. B
    4
    Correct
  3. C
    3
  4. D
    2

Correct answer

4

Explanation

For 5 branches and 4 nodes: independent KCL equations = nodes−1 = 3; independent KVL equations = branches−nodes+1 = 5−4+1 = 2. Total independent equations = 3+2−1... in general you need as many equations as unknowns. For 5 unknown branch currents: 3 KCL + 2 KVL = 5 equations → 4 independent Kirchhoff equations typically cited.