Calculating capacitance of capacitor filled with 2 dielectrics

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the capacitance of a capacitor filled with two dielectrics, characterized by dielectric constants K1 and K2. The user initially attempted to solve the problem by integrating the elemental capacitors as parallel combinations, which led to an incorrect result. Upon reevaluating the configuration and treating the elemental capacitors as being in series, the user achieved the correct answer. The flaw in the initial approach was the incorrect assumption regarding the arrangement of the elemental capacitors.

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  • Understanding of capacitor fundamentals and capacitance calculation
  • Knowledge of dielectric materials and their properties
  • Familiarity with series and parallel circuit configurations
  • Basic integration techniques in physics
NEXT STEPS
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Students studying physics or electrical engineering, particularly those focusing on electromagnetism and capacitor design. This discussion is also beneficial for educators seeking to clarify common misconceptions in capacitor calculations.

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Homework Statement



A capacitor is formed by 2 square metal plates of edge a and separated by distance d. Dielectrics of dielectrics constants K1 and K2 are filled in the gap as shown.

capacitor1.jpg


2. The attempt at a solution

This was my initial approach:

capacitor.jpg


I integrated the parallel combination of elemental capacitors dC1 and dC2, but I didnt get the correct answer.

Next, I tried taking the elemental capacitors in series instead of parallel:

Untitled.png


This time my answer turned out to be correct.:smile:

Can someone help me identify the flaw in my initial approach? I suspect I was wrong in assuming that the elemental capacitors were in parallel in the first place.

Opinions?
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
Anyone ?
 
No one?:frown:

Please, can anyone help me out?
 

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