Op-Amp Golden Rules Visualizer
Description
This MicroSim walks through the two golden rules of ideal op-amps using an inverting amplifier circuit.
| Golden Rule | Statement | Why it holds |
|---|---|---|
| Virtual Short | \(V_+ = V_-\) | Negative feedback drives the output to equalise the two inputs |
| No Input Current | \(I_+ = I_- = 0\) | Ideal op-amp has infinite input impedance |
Step-through mode (4 steps): 1. Input voltage applied through Ri 2. Negative feedback minimises \(V_+ - V_-\) 3. Virtual ground: \(V_- = 0\,\text{V}\) (enforced, not wired) 4. Output settles: \(V_{out} = -V_{in} \times R_f/R_i\)
Controls: Vin slider (±5 V), Rf/Ri gain ratio slider (1–20), Prev/Next step buttons.