Are ALL parallel plate capacitors linear?

In summary, the linearity of a parallel plate capacitor depends on the constant permittivity. However, there may be cases where the linearity is affected, as seen in some real capacitors such as tantalums.
  • #1
lonelypancreas
12
1

Homework Statement


Are ALL parallel plate capacitors linear?

Homework Equations


D = permittivity * E

The Attempt at a Solution


Capacitance is linear if permittivity is constant. Is there a case where a parallel plate capacitor is not linear?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
http://www.ferrodevices.com/1/297/files/Chapter3-ParaelectricCapacitors.pdf
 
  • Like
Likes berkeman
  • #3
TSny said:
http://www.ferrodevices.com/1/297/files/Chapter3-ParaelectricCapacitors.pdf
Interesting! I hadn't seen that before.
lonelypancreas said:
Capacitance is linear if permittivity is constant.
I'm not sure that's true... How exactly are you defining "linear" in this problem?
lonelypancreas said:
Is there a case where a parallel plate capacitor is not linear?
Have a look at the datasheets for some real capacitors (like tantalums). Do you see anything that might change your answer?
 

1. What is a parallel plate capacitor?

A parallel plate capacitor is a type of capacitor that consists of two conducting plates separated by a dielectric material. The plates are connected to a voltage source, creating an electric field between them. This results in the storage of electrical energy in the form of electrostatic potential energy.

2. Are all parallel plate capacitors linear?

No, not all parallel plate capacitors are linear. A linear capacitor is one whose capacitance remains constant regardless of the applied voltage. In a parallel plate capacitor, the capacitance is affected by the distance between the plates and the dielectric material. If these factors change, the capacitance may not remain constant, making the capacitor non-linear.

3. What factors affect the linearity of a parallel plate capacitor?

The linearity of a parallel plate capacitor can be affected by the distance between the plates, the dielectric material used, and the applied voltage. If any of these factors change, the capacitance may also change, making the capacitor non-linear. Additionally, the shape and size of the plates can also affect the linearity of the capacitor.

4. How can we determine if a parallel plate capacitor is linear or non-linear?

To determine the linearity of a parallel plate capacitor, we can plot a graph of the capacitance versus the applied voltage. If the graph is a straight line, the capacitor is linear. If the graph is curved, the capacitor is non-linear. Additionally, we can also calculate the capacitance at different applied voltages and compare it to the theoretical value to determine the linearity.

5. Why is it important to know if a parallel plate capacitor is linear or non-linear?

Knowing the linearity of a capacitor is important in many applications, especially in electronic circuits. In linear circuits, it is necessary to have a linear capacitor to avoid distortion and ensure accurate performance. Non-linear capacitors can cause problems such as signal distortion and loss of data. Therefore, it is important to know the linearity of a parallel plate capacitor before using it in a circuit.

Similar threads

Replies
1
Views
163
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
322
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
18
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
407
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
1K
Replies
4
Views
369
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
917
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
20
Views
422
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
842
Back
Top