Capacitors in Series and Parallel homework

I understand now.In summary, the conversation is discussing how to calculate the equivalent capacitance of a network with two different capacitance values and how to find the charge and potential difference in certain points in the circuit. The solution involves identifying which capacitors are in series and which are in parallel, and using the formula for calculating capacitances in these configurations.
  • #1
SuperCass
60
0

Homework Statement



In Fig. 25-22, each capacitance C1 is 7.2 µF, and each capacitance C2 is 4.8 µF

25-22.gif


(a) Compute the equivalent capacitance of the network between points a and b.

(b) Compute the charge on each of the three capacitors nearest a and b when Vab = 450 V.

(c) With 450 V across a and b, compute Vcd.


Homework Equations



Q=CV

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried figuring the total capacitance, but I can't tell what is series and what is parallel! In series I know that the potential differences add up in series and they are the same in parallel, and the opposite is true for charge. Please help!
 

Attachments

  • 25-22.gif
    25-22.gif
    3.9 KB · Views: 1,272
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
The three capacitors on the right hand end are in series.
Capacitances in series "add" according to the formula
1/C = 1/C1 + 1/C2 + 1/C3
Then you can replace the original circuit with a simpler equivilent one with the three capacitors replaced by the one.

Do it again - this time the two capacitors on the end are in parallel.
 
  • #3
Okay, thank you so much!
 

1. What is the difference between capacitors in series and parallel?

In a series connection, the capacitors are connected end to end, creating one long path for the current to flow through each capacitor. In a parallel connection, the capacitors are connected side by side, creating multiple paths for the current to flow through each capacitor.

2. How does the capacitance change when capacitors are connected in parallel?

When capacitors are connected in parallel, the total capacitance increases. This is because the effective plate area and distance between plates are increased, allowing for more charge to be stored.

3. What is the equation for calculating the total capacitance of capacitors in series?

The equation for calculating the total capacitance of capacitors in series is 1/C total = 1/C1 + 1/C2 + 1/C3 + ... + 1/Cn, where C1, C2, C3, etc. are the individual capacitances of each capacitor.

4. How does the voltage change when capacitors are connected in series?

When capacitors are connected in series, the total voltage across the capacitors is split between each capacitor. This means that the voltage across each capacitor will be less than the total voltage applied.

5. Can capacitors in series and parallel be combined into one circuit?

Yes, capacitors in series and parallel can be combined into one circuit. This is known as a combination circuit and can be analyzed using the same equations and principles as individual series and parallel circuits.

Similar threads

Replies
4
Views
332
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
890
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
12K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
4K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
2K
Back
Top