Can a Dependent source be dependent on itself?

I am looking for the Thevenin Resistance here. However, I have no clue what to do with $$\i_b\$$ and the source dependent on it. This is the entire circuit. $$\i_b\$$ is the current through the 5$$\k\Omega\$$ resistor. In this case, There is an open circuit across terminals a and b and so there is no current flowing through the 10$$\k\Omega\$$ resistor. Meaning that all of the current flowing in the circuit is $$\i_b\$$. That presents this problem, because there's a dependent source that is dependent on the current $$\i_b\$$ and they are in series. Hence, the confusion and the question.

Equations: KVL along outer loop CCW:

Sidenote: $$\I_{sc}\$$, short circuit current across terminals a & b, is easily obtainable by a KVL on the outer loop, the relationship of the current through the 10$$\k\Omega\$$ resistor and $$\i_b\$$, (Which is $$\4i_b = i_b + 3i_b\$$ :: KCL in the middle top node), and it is -1.8mA.

• It is not dependant on itself, but on the current in another place of the circuit. Did you try to simply write the equations? – dim Sep 27 '18 at 5:21
• Homework needs an attempt at a solution or it is off topic, please edit your question and try to put in some equations. Yes this is solvable – Voltage Spike Sep 27 '18 at 5:22
• @dim That i_b on the 5kOhm resistor is the current that the source is dependent on. I am looking for the thevenin resistance, in this case, since there are both Dependent and independent sources in the circuit, I was taught to find the short circuit current Isc and the open circuit voltage Voc. Isc is easily obtainable through KVL in the outer loop, which equates to -1.8A (assuming the direction is downward). This part stumps me since I'm not sure what to make of it. No current will pass through the 10kOhm resistor, and so I am left with this. – zodkc Sep 27 '18 at 5:41
• With only one current loop you have two inconsistent defined currents ib and 4ib which cannot be equal. so the output must have a load to work. – Tony Stewart Sunnyskyguy EE75 Sep 27 '18 at 6:01
• Read the lecture notes. – Chu Sep 27 '18 at 6:59