What is the Difference Between Thevenin and Norton?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚Thevenin's and Norton's theorems are used in circuit analysis to simplify complex circuits for easier calculations and understanding. They are similar in many aspects, but there are key differences between the two:
- Source: Thevenin's theorem uses a voltage source, while Norton's theorem uses a current source.
- Resistor: Thevenin's theorem employs a resistor in series with the source, whereas Norton's theorem uses a resistor set in parallel with the source.
- Derivation: Norton's theorem is actually a derivation of Thevenin's theorem.
- Resistance: Thevenin's resistance and Norton's resistance are equal in magnitude.
- Equivalent Circuits: Thevenin's equivalent circuit and Norton's equivalent circuit can be easily interchanged.
Both theorems are used to simplify circuits and make it easier to calculate changes for large-scale circuits. The choice between Thevenin and Norton's equivalent circuits depends on the specific situation. For example, if the original circuit is attached to a large resistive load, then the Thevenin equivalent circuit should be used for analysis. If the original circuit is attached to a small resistive load, then the Norton equivalent circuit will give a better intuitive understanding of the circuit.
Comparative Table: Thevenin vs Norton
Thevenin and Norton are two theorems used in electrical engineering and circuit analysis to simplify linear circuits. Here is a table comparing the key differences between the two:
Feature | Thevenin Theorem | Norton Theorem |
---|---|---|
Equivalent Circuit | Voltage source in series with a resistor | Current source in parallel with a resistor |
Source Conversion | Not applicable | Applicable |
Resistor Connection | Series connection with the source | Parallel connection with the source |
Norton Resistance | $$R{Norton} = R{Thevenin}$$ | - |
Thevenin Voltage | $$V{Thevenin} = I{Norton} \cdot R_{Norton}$$ | - |
Application | Useful when dealing with a voltage source and series resistance | Useful when dealing with a current source and parallel resistance |
Equivalence | Both Thevenin and Norton resistances are equal in magnitude | Both Thevenin and Norton equivalent circuits can be easily interchanged |
Both Thevenin and Norton theorems are used to simplify linear circuits, but they are applied in different scenarios. Thevenin theorem is useful when dealing with a voltage source and series resistance, while Norton theorem is useful when dealing with a current source and parallel resistance. The Thevenin and Norton resistances are equal in magnitude, and their equivalent circuits can be easily interchanged.
- Transistor vs Thyristor
- Diode vs Zener Diode
- Nernst Equation vs Goldman Equation
- NPN vs PNP Transistor
- Current vs Voltage
- Seebeck Peltier vs Thomson Effect
- Norton Antivirus 2011 vs Norton Internet Security 2011
- Ohmic vs Non Ohmic Conductors
- Newton vs Joule
- Thermocouple vs Thermistor
- Potential Difference vs Voltage
- Ohm’s Law vs Kirchhoff’s Law
- Watts vs Volts
- Parallel vs Series Circuits
- Postulate vs Theorem
- Nitrile vs Viton
- Anode vs Cathode
- Vulnerability vs Threat
- Neutral vs Ground