Thévenin's Theorem: Basics

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This lecture covers the basics of Thévenin's theorem, a fundamental concept in electrical sciences and technologies. The theorem, first discovered by Hermann von Helmholtz and later by Leon Charles Thévenin, allows the calculation of voltage across a circuit without the need to study its internal resistance. The procedure involves identifying the resistance to be studied and defining the circuit terminals. Additionally, an example of Norton's theorem is provided.

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Thévenin's theorem

As originally stated in terms of direct-current resistive circuits only, Thévenin's theorem states that "Any linear electrical network containing only voltage sources, current sources and resistances can be replaced at terminals A–B by an equivalent combination of a voltage source Vth in a series connection with a resistance Rth." The equivalent voltage Vth is the voltage obtained at terminals A–B of the network with terminals A–B open circuited.

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