Engineering Theory & Mathematical Model
Léon Charles Thévenin proved any linear two-terminal network behaves identically to an ideal voltage source Vth in series with resistance Rth. Maximum power is delivered to an external load when RL matches Rth.
Interactive Lab Procedure
- Read open-circuit Vth directly on VM1 with R1 = 1 kΩ and POT1 = 1 kΩ (Vth = 5.00 V, Rth = 500 Ω).
- Place a 500 Ω load resistor across VM1: terminal voltage drops to exactly Vth/2 = 2.50 V and load power peaks at 12.5 mW!
- Try RL = 200 Ω and RL = 1200 Ω to confirm both yield lower load power than 500 Ω.
Technical FAQ
What is the core governing formula for Thevenin's Theorem & Maximum Power Transfer Simulator?
Vth = V_open, Rth = R1 ∥ R2, P_max_load at RL = Rth — Léon Charles Thévenin proved any linear two-terminal network behaves identically to an ideal voltage source Vth in series with resistance Rth. Maximum power is delivered to an external load when RL matches Rth.
Can I modify component values and rewire this circuit live?
Yes! The schematic above runs a live MNA SPICE engine. Click any part to adjust parameters, add or delete wires and components, and click Share URL to save your custom topology.