Potential difference across capacitor in a network

In summary, the conversation discusses determining the potential difference across plates of a capacitor in a given network. The relevant equations and confusion over the polarity of the voltages are also mentioned. It is suggested that the question may be poorly written and the answer may depend on the direction of the current flow.
  • #1
Suyash Singh

Homework Statement


Determine the potential difference across the plates of the capacitor of the network shown in the figure.

6cfd021e59d9eff49396f757df312d4af4ab835d.png

Homework Equations


kirchoff's loop rule
q=vc
3. The attempt at a solutio
applying kirchhoffs law
starting at bottom right point,
q/c2-E1+q/c1+E2=0
=>E2-E1=-q/c1-q/c2
now i am confused what to do further

the answer is
V1=-q/c1 and V2=q/c2
 
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  • #2
You don't need Kirchoff's law. Look at the second of the two relevant equations that you wrote down. Give q and c, what is v?
 
  • #3
phyzguy said:
You don't need Kirchoff's law. Look at the second of the two relevant equations that you wrote down. Give q and c, what is v?
v=q/c
but why is v1 negative and v2 positive?
 
  • #4
Suyash Singh said:
v=q/c
but why is v1 negative and v2 positive?
Negative or positive with respect to what?
Looks like they are assuming the ground to be at the negative terminal of E2.
 
  • #5
+1

I think it is a badly written question. Is that the exact wording?
 
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  • #6
CWatters said:
+1

I think it is a badly written question. Is that the exact wording?
yes it was asked in All India CBSE board 2013.
 
  • #7
cnh1995 said:
Negative or positive with respect to what?
Looks like they are assuming the ground to be at the negative terminal of E2.
the ground is taken at zero potential in our syllabus.
 
  • #8
Even if the 0V node was specified the polarity of the voltages isn't defined. Consider this circuit...

Polarity.png


If E1 = 10V then V3 = 10V and V2 = -10V. See how the polarity depends on the direction of the arrow I drew on the circuit.

So I would argue that in your circuit all of the following are valid answers...

V1=+q/c1 and V2=+q/c2
V1=-q/c1 and V2=+q/c2
V1=+q/c1 and V2=-q/c2
V1=-q/c1, and V2=-q/c2
 
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  • #9

1. What is the potential difference across a capacitor in a network?

The potential difference across a capacitor in a network is the difference in electric potential between the positive and negative plates of the capacitor. This potential difference is created by the accumulation of electric charge on the plates, which creates an electric field between them.

2. How is the potential difference across a capacitor calculated?

The potential difference across a capacitor can be calculated using the formula V = Q/C, where V is the potential difference, Q is the charge on the capacitor, and C is the capacitance of the capacitor. This formula is known as the capacitor equation.

3. What factors affect the potential difference across a capacitor?

The potential difference across a capacitor is affected by the amount of charge stored on the plates, the distance between the plates, and the material and shape of the plates. Additionally, the potential difference can also be affected by the presence of other components in the network, such as resistors or inductors.

4. How does the potential difference across a capacitor change over time?

In a DC circuit, the potential difference across a capacitor remains constant as long as the voltage source remains constant. However, in an AC circuit, the potential difference across a capacitor changes over time as the capacitor charges and discharges in response to the alternating current.

5. What is the significance of potential difference across a capacitor in a network?

The potential difference across a capacitor is an important aspect of circuit analysis as it affects the flow of current through the network. It is also a key element in the functioning of electronic devices, as capacitors are used in various applications such as energy storage, filtering, and signal processing.

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