Superposition Theorem Questions

The superposition theorem is one of the essential theorems applied to electrical networks. The superposition theorem helps in solving the network with two or more sources. It also aids in calculating the current through the resistor in two loops.

Superposition theorem states that “If more than one source acts simultaneously in an electric circuit, then the current through any one of the branches of the circuit is the summation of currents, which would flow through the branch for each source, keeping all the other sources dead.”

Note: When removing a voltage source, its value is set to zero.

Limitations of Superposition Theorem

• The superposition theorem does not apply to non-linear circuits.
• Applying the superposition theorem requires two or more sources in the circuit.

Note:

• While you sum the individual contributions of each source, cross-check the signs assigned to the quantities. It is suggested to assign a reference direction to each unknown quantity. If a contribution from a source has the same direction as the reference direction, the sum is positive. If in the opposite direction, then mention the negative sign.
• All the components must be linear, to use the superposition theorem.
• This theorem does not apply to power, as power is not a linear quantity.

Read more: Superposition Theorem

Important Superposition Theorem Questions with Answers

1. State true or false: While removing a voltage source, the value of the voltage source is set to zero.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Answer: a) TRUE

Explanation: The voltage source is replaced with a short circuit.

2. When removing a current source, its value is set to zero. This is done by replacing the current source with an _____

1. Light bulb
2. Short circuit
3. Open circuit
4. Resistor

Answer: c) Open circuit.

3. Superposition theorem is valid for

1. Linear circuits
2. Non-linear circuits
3. Both linear and non-linear circuits
4. None of the options

Answer: a) Linear circuits.

Explanation: The superposition theorem is valid for linear bilateral networks.

4. The superposition theorem converts circuit into

1. Thevenin equivalent circuit
2. Norton equivalent circuit
3. Both a) and b)
4. None of the option

Answer: c) Both a) and b)

5. For applying the superposition theorem, we need

1. No source
2. Only one source
3. Two or more sources
4. None of the options

Answer: c) Two or more sources.

Explanation: The application of the superposition theorem requires two or more sources in the circuit.

6. Choose YES or NO: The superposition theorem can be easily applied to unbalanced bridge circuits.

1. YES
2. NO

Answer: b) NO

Explanation: The superposition theorem cannot be applied to unbalanced bridge circuits.

7. Choose the passive bilateral element

1. Inductor
2. Resistor
3. Capacitor
4. All the above options

Answer: d) All the above options.

Explanation: Inductor, capacitor, and resistor are passive bilateral elements.

8. According to which law, is the current through a conductor between two points directly proportional to the voltage across the two points?

1. Superposition theorem
2. Newton’s law
3. Faraday’s law
4. Ohm’s law

Answer: d) Ohm’s law

9. According to Ohm’s law:

1. V=IR
2. V=I+R
3. V=2I/R
4. V+I+R=0

Answer: a) V=IR

10. State true or false: The superposition theorem is not valid for AC circuits.

1. TRUE
2. FALSE

Answer: b) FALSE

Explanation: The superposition theorem is valid for AC circuits.

Practice Questions

1. State superposition theorem.
2. List the limitations of the superposition theorem.
3. Explain the superposition theorem using an example.
4. State Ohm’s law.
5. Define open circuit and close circuit.

See the video below to learn about the superposition theorem.