Is the Formula for Voltage Drop Across Capacitor Opposite of Resistor?

In summary, the conversation discusses the formula for calculating the voltage drop across capacitors in series, which is different from the formula for resistors. The conversation also mentions the importance of deriving equations and understanding the underlying principles in order to be confident in using them.
  • #1
Joel Kee
13
0

Homework Statement


I'm trying to calculate the voltage drop across a 60uF and a 30uF capacitor in series, powered by 60V. Is the formula for voltage drop across capacitor opposite of the formula for resistor, where resistor is R1=R1/(R1+R2) while capacitor is C1=C2/(C1+C2)?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
Joel Kee said:
Is the formula for voltage drop across capacitor opposite of the formula for resistor, where resistor is R1=R1/(R1+R2) while capacitor is C1=C2/(C1+C2)?
The symbols on the left side don't make sense. The right side is useful, but you should probably derive those equations to be sure.
 
  • #3
mfb said:
The symbols on the left side don't make sense. The right side is useful, but you should probably derive those equations to be sure.
My bad, the eqs are supposed to be multiplied with the total voltage.
 
  • #4
It is far better that you be confident at deriving such formula yourself using basic knowledge.

The crux of the matter is that when connected to a source, equal amounts of charge are added to each of the series-connected capacitors.
Use this fact, together with Q = C·V, to confirm or disprove the formula you wrote.
 
  • #5
Joel Kee said:
My bad, the eqs are supposed to be multiplied with the total voltage.
Still your bad. R1=R1/(R1+R2) ? Etc.
 
  • #6
rude man said:
Still your bad. R1=R1/(R1+R2) ? Etc.
V1=[R1/(R1+R2)]V

My bad.
 

1. What is voltage drop across a capacitor?

Voltage drop across a capacitor is the decrease in voltage that occurs when a capacitor is connected to a circuit. This decrease is due to the capacitor's ability to store and release electrical charge.

2. How is voltage drop across a capacitor calculated?

Voltage drop across a capacitor can be calculated using the equation V = Q/C, where V is the voltage drop, Q is the charge stored on the capacitor, and C is the capacitance of the capacitor.

3. What factors affect the voltage drop across a capacitor?

The voltage drop across a capacitor can be affected by the size of the capacitor, the amount of charge stored on the capacitor, and the frequency of the AC voltage applied to the capacitor.

4. Why is voltage drop across a capacitor important?

Voltage drop across a capacitor is important because it affects the overall performance of a circuit. It can impact the stability of the circuit, the efficiency of power transfer, and the accuracy of measurements in the circuit.

5. How can voltage drop across a capacitor be reduced?

Voltage drop across a capacitor can be reduced by increasing the capacitance or decreasing the frequency of the AC voltage applied to the capacitor. It can also be reduced by using multiple capacitors in parallel to increase the overall capacitance.

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