ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces (1) the two ideal circuit elements of dc circuits, namely, resistors and sources; (2) the two basic circuit laws, namely, Kirchhoff's current law and Kirchhoff's voltage law; and (3) the two basic connections between circuit elements, namely, series and parallel connections. It explains the nature of electrical resistance using a simplified model and presents the very basic Ohm's law defining an ideal resistor. Ideal, independent and dependent, voltage and current sources are then discussed, with emphasis on their defining and essential properties. The chapter introduces Kirchhoff's laws as laws derived from conservation of charge and conservation of energy, but which provide a much simpler means of analyzing circuit behavior. It discusses series and parallel connections of circuit elements and linked to Kirchhoff's laws. The chapter introduces PSpice simulations and are included in all numerical examples, whenever appropriate, to illustrate and verify the results of analytical solutions.
