What is the principle of superposition in electrical circuits?

The principle of superposition states that in a linear circuit with multiple independent sources, the total response (voltage or current) at any point in the circuit can be determined by considering each source individually while temporarily turning off all other sources. "Turning off" a source entails replacing voltage sources with short circuits and current sources with open circuits.

This principle works under the condition that the circuit is linear, meaning that the parameters and relationships within the circuit (voltage, current, resistance) obey proportionality and additivity. By analyzing each independent source separately and adding their effects, one can accurately predict how the circuit will behave when all sources are active. This approach simplifies complex circuit analysis and allows for a more straightforward calculation of responses in circuits with multiple sources.

Understanding this concept is crucial for both practical circuit analysis and theoretical examination, as it provides a systematic method to tackle circuits with various components and sources.