- #1
Capacitor Circuit Problem: Identical Capacitors & Battery Connection Explained"
- Thread starter apchemstudent
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Homework Help Overview
The discussion revolves around a circuit problem involving identical capacitors and their connection to a battery. Participants are exploring the conditions under which all capacitors can charge and the implications of connecting the battery to different terminals.
Discussion Character
- Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking
Approaches and Questions Raised
- Participants discuss the implications of connecting a battery to various terminal combinations (AB, AC, BD) and question why none of these configurations allow for all capacitors to charge. There are attempts to clarify the behavior of voltage across nodes and the flow of current through the circuit.
Discussion Status
The discussion is ongoing, with participants seeking further clarification on the behavior of the circuit. Some have provided insights into voltage relationships between nodes, while others express confusion and request elaboration on specific points.
Contextual Notes
There is an emphasis on understanding the voltage levels at different nodes and the implications for charging the capacitors. Participants are navigating assumptions about current flow and voltage equality in the circuit setup.
- #2
whozum
- 2,219
- 1
There is no path in which you can reach current to all the capacitors. Once you reach a capacitor, the current will stop at that point (over time).
- #3
apchemstudent
- 220
- 0
whozum said:
Thanks for your explanation, but can you elaborate on that a little more, please? I still don't understand why you cannot charge all the capacitors(not to the max) to an extent?
- #4
Davorak
- 276
- 0
Ok here is an example if the battery is connected between A+ C then the bottom capacitor will not charge, but the others will. This is because nodes B and D will be at the same voltage.
The circuit can be redrawn to show the same thing works for A+B, and A+D.
The circuit can be redrawn to show the same thing works for A+B, and A+D.
- #5
chroot
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Nodes A and C are always at the same voltage, so the capacitor between them never gets charged.
- Warren
- Warren
- #6
Davorak
- 276
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If the two terminals of a battery are connected to the nodes A and C how can they be at [the same] voltages?
Last edited:
- #7
chroot
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Davorak,
I'm sorry, I didn't read the question that thoroughly.
- Warren
I'm sorry, I didn't read the question that thoroughly.- Warren
- #8
Davorak
- 276
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All is right with the world then.