I am confused about the current flow in regards to a ground. In the attached schematic there is a ground between R1 and R2. My question is what affect does the ground have on current flow. Does current flow from the negative terminal up through the ground to the positive terminal? Does no current at all flow through the earth?

 

In AC power systems it is possible for current to flow through an earth ground, but that would also be an indication that something is seriously wrong.

In ordinary circuits, if there are multiple ground symbols used then it can be assumed that a massive invisible wire connects all the ground symbols. But if there is just a single ground shown in a circuit, that is the point to connect the black lead of the voltmeter. A single ground symbol is just a reference point for measuring circuit voltages.

 

Does no current at all flow through the earth?

Can't tell. If the supply is isolated, like a battery for instance, then no current needs to flow to ground, but the ground connection establishes a reference voltage for everything else. Like earthing the body of your car would establish battery negative as ground. If the supply is not isolated, there could be current flow from either pole of the supply to/from ground.

 

One would assume that no current flows to the GROUND symbol. The purpose of the GROUND is to establish a 0V reference point in the circuit.
If one were to move the GROUND symbol to the -Es terminal, the only thing that will change is the -25V would become +25V. Everything else stays the same.

 

Thanks guys.