Need help with voltage across a capacitor in a DC circuit

In summary, in a DC RC circuit, the voltage through a capacitor is always considered negative, regardless of whether the current is travelling with or against it. This is because there is only current flowing while the capacitor is charging or discharging. However, a schematic would be helpful in understanding the question more clearly.
  • #1
Blockade
68
0
In a RC circuit is voltage through a capacitor always consider negative no matter if you're going with or against the current when setting up a voltage equation?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Short answer no.

Travelling with the current the voltage is negative (eg a Voltage drop). Against it, positive.
 
  • #3
PS is this a DC or AC circuit?
 
  • #4
CWatters said:
PS is this a DC or AC circuit?
It's a DC. We will not be covering AC until a couple more weeks.
 
  • #5
Ok in which case there is only current flowing while the capacitor is charging.
 
  • Like
Likes davenn
  • #6
My understanding is current could also flow when the capacitor is discharging.
 
  • #7
oops yes that as well.
 
  • #8
Blockade said:
In a RC circuit is voltage through a capacitor always consider negative no matter if you're going with or against the current when setting up a voltage equation?
I don't know what you mean by the wording of your question. It would be better if you came up with some schematics on which you can base your question.
 

Related to Need help with voltage across a capacitor in a DC circuit

1. What is a capacitor?

A capacitor is an electronic component that stores electrical energy in the form of an electric field. It consists of two conductive plates separated by an insulating material, known as a dielectric.

2. How does a capacitor work in a DC circuit?

In a DC circuit, a capacitor blocks the flow of direct current (DC) while allowing alternating current (AC) to pass through. When a voltage is applied across the capacitor, it charges up and stores energy, similar to a battery.

3. What is the voltage across a capacitor in a DC circuit?

The voltage across a capacitor in a DC circuit depends on the capacitance of the capacitor and the amount of charge stored on the plates. It can be calculated using the formula V = Q/C, where V is voltage, Q is charge, and C is capacitance.

4. How do I calculate the voltage across a capacitor in a DC circuit?

To calculate the voltage across a capacitor in a DC circuit, you will need to know the capacitance of the capacitor and the amount of charge on the plates. You can then use the formula V = Q/C, where V is voltage, Q is charge, and C is capacitance.

5. What factors affect the voltage across a capacitor in a DC circuit?

The voltage across a capacitor in a DC circuit is affected by the capacitance of the capacitor, the amount of charge stored on the plates, and the voltage of the power source. It is also affected by the dielectric material between the plates and any resistance in the circuit.

Similar threads

Replies
7
Views
2K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
7
Views
949
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
841
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
7
Views
1K
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
9
Views
3K
Replies
9
Views
3K
Replies
19
Views
3K
Back
Top