The project consists of a word processed (typed) report submitted by the project report due date. Late submissions are penalized 10% of the mark per day, including Saturdays and Sundays.
The topic for the project is Complex Variables and RLC Circuits, although you may choose a different title. The aim is to research how complex numbers facilitate some of the calculations in circuit theory. The analysis of several circuits can be summarized in a unified language, that is, the tool of complex variables. The purpose of the project is to shed some light on that. The project is also a good introduction on how to write a professional report which you will be faced with in your career, you should take care to ensure that all spelling and punctuation is correct and that the overall look of the report is polished and clean. The report should consist of the following components:
1. A cover page. Include the Student Name, Course Code, Title and Date. Your cover page is the first thing the reader sees so it may be a good idea to add graphics to the page to draw attention to your report.
2. Introduction to the topic. Research the topic of RLC circuits with AC sources. Explain what is given in a general problem involving a circuit and what is asked for. Explain the terms which comprise an RLC circuit, with appropriate diagrams and details of the functions of each component, such as resistor, etc. Briefly outline the major historical figures involved in modeling the RLC circuits with AC currents, and explain ho and how started the use of complex variables in circuit analysis for the first time.
3. Description of the problem. State clearly that the current in an RLC circuit with an AC source with and without the use of complex variables. And that the purpose of your project is comparing the advantages and disadvantages of these approaches. Your descriptions and diagrams should be clear enough that someone new to the subject would be able to read your paper and understand the equation. One good measure of completeness is to ask yourself if you would be able to understand the equation by reading your description and studying your diagram. In other words your description should be a clear, self-contained exposition of the topic, much like one that you could find in the textbook on a given topic.
4. Description of the steps involved in solving the problem. Outline in clear terms the steps you would take relate the solution of the problem of finding currents in an RLC circuit with and without using complex variables.
5. A detailed solution. Using physical principles, explain how the current is obtained in an RLC circuit with an AC source. Explain how the phase difference between the current and voltage is obtained without the use of complex variables. Support your theoretical statements with an example. Explain how the same general problem can be solved using complex variables. Show that in both cases one obtains the same results.
6. Conclusion and analysis of the results. Write a conclusion that highlights the major points of interest in your project and ties together some of the most interesting points you have covered.