Finding Rate of Energy Loss in an RC Discharge Circuit

In summary, in an RC discharge circuit with R= 2.5 X10^4 ohms and C=40 microfarad, the initial potential difference across C is 25 V. To find the rate at which energy is being lost by C at 0.5 seconds, the equations Q = Q(initial)e^(-t/RC) and U= 0.5 Q^2/C can be used. By solving for the charge at t=0.5 seconds and taking the derivative of the expression for U, the rate at which energy is being lost by C can be evaluated.
  • #1
lha08
164
0

Homework Statement


In an RC discharge circuit, R= 2.5 X10^4 ohms and C=40 microfarad. The initial potential difference across C is 25 V. Find the rate at which energy is being lost by C at 0.5 seconds.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Like in this case, I probably have to use Q = Q(initial)e^(-t/RC) and U= 0.5 Q^2/C. But then we need dU/dt...i'm not sure what to do...like i can solve for the charge at t=0.5 seconds and also the current if that matters...but like how am i supposed to use dt?...I've been stuck on this problem for like an hour...
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Put Q(t) that you know in the equation for U, then take the derivative. Evaluate the expression that you get at t = 0.5 s.
 

1. How do you calculate the rate of energy loss in an RC discharge circuit?

The rate of energy loss in an RC discharge circuit can be calculated using the formula P = IV, where P is the power dissipated, I is the current through the circuit, and V is the voltage across the resistor.

2. What factors affect the rate of energy loss in an RC discharge circuit?

The rate of energy loss in an RC discharge circuit can be affected by the resistance and capacitance values of the circuit, as well as the voltage and current. Additionally, the time constant of the circuit, which is determined by the resistance and capacitance, can also impact the rate of energy loss.

3. How can you measure the rate of energy loss in an RC discharge circuit?

The rate of energy loss in an RC discharge circuit can be measured by using a multimeter to measure the voltage and current in the circuit. The power dissipated can then be calculated using the formula P = IV.

4. Why is it important to know the rate of energy loss in an RC discharge circuit?

Knowing the rate of energy loss in an RC discharge circuit is important because it allows us to understand the efficiency of the circuit and identify any potential issues. It can also help in designing more efficient circuits for various applications.

5. How can the rate of energy loss in an RC discharge circuit be reduced?

The rate of energy loss in an RC discharge circuit can be reduced by using components with lower resistance and higher capacitance values, as well as by decreasing the voltage and current in the circuit. Additionally, using a higher quality capacitor can also help in reducing energy loss.

Similar threads

Finding R(t) in discharging RC circuit
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
Determining Inductance L in an LC Circuit
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
213
Calculating Charge and Time in a Discharging RC Circuit
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
Need help finding current on RC circuit
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
6K
Capacitor Questions Charging and Discharging
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
2K
How Does a Capacitor Charge to Negative Voltage in an RC Circuit?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
20
Views
3K
Solve RC Circuit Problem: Find Time of Current > 50mA
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
3K
Energy dissipated in the resistors in a 2 mesh RC circuit
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
Capacitor circuit time constant problem
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
Entropy change in an RC circuit
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top