Calculating Capacitance of Two Electrodes with Varying Distance

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the capacitance of two electrodes with varying distances using the formula C=εA/d. The area (A) is specified as 0.012 m², with distances (d) of 0.001 m for the left electrode and 0.002 m for the right electrode. The correct approach involves calculating the capacitance for each electrode separately and recognizing that these capacitances are in parallel, leading to the overall capacitance being the sum of the two individual capacitances, C = C1 + C2.

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  • Understanding of capacitance formulas, specifically C=εA/d
  • Knowledge of parallel and series circuit configurations
  • Familiarity with the concept of permittivity (ε)
  • Basic skills in algebra for calculations
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  • Research the concept of permittivity (ε) in different materials
  • Learn about the implications of capacitance in parallel circuits
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Electrical engineers, physics students, and anyone involved in circuit design or studying electrostatics will benefit from this discussion.

StillAnotherDave
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Homework Statement
Finding the capacitance of two electrodes...
Relevant Equations
C=εA/d
1584729605917.png


Can I get some help in answering this questions?

As I understand, for two electrodes:

C=εA/d

A = 0.012 m2
d = 0.001 m on the left and d = 0.002 m on the right.

Thus the capacitance of each part is:

Left: C = (εx0.012)/0.001

Right: C= (εx0.012)/0.002

Firstly, is this the right approach? Secondly, what next? Do you simply add the two values to get the overall capacitance?

Help greatly appreciated!
 

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StillAnotherDave said:
Firstly, is this the right approach?
Yes :oldsmile:

Secondly, what next? Do you simply add the two values to get the overall capacitance?
Follow the hint. Can you consider these two capacitances as being in parallel or series? If so, which one?
 
To me, they look to be in parallel. Hence C = C1 + C2. Correct?
 
Yes. That's right.
 
Great! Now if you can just turn your attention to my semi-infinite well question ... :wink:

Appreciate the help.
 

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