Calculating Current Split in Parallel Circuit with Frequency of 100 sec-1

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the current split in a parallel circuit involving a capacitor and a resistive load. The specific values given are a capacitance of 0.829 µF and a resistance of 229 ohms, with a frequency of 100 sec-1.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between the currents through the resistor and capacitor, questioning the validity of the original poster's approach to calculating the fraction of current through the capacitor.
  • Some participants raise concerns about the effective current in an AC circuit, suggesting that the total current may not simply be the sum of the individual currents.
  • There is uncertainty about whether the equations used apply to parallel circuits, with one participant specifically questioning if the same principles for series RC circuits can be applied here.
  • Another participant seeks clarification on the concept of total current in relation to effective values, indicating confusion about the calculations involved.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants actively questioning assumptions and exploring different interpretations of the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the calculation of total effective current, but no consensus has been reached on the correct approach or solution.

Contextual Notes

There is a sense of urgency in the discussion, as one participant notes that the assignment is approaching its due date. This may influence the depth of exploration and the willingness to engage with complex concepts.

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Homework Statement



A capacitor is placed parallel across a resistive load in a circuit. C= 0.829*10-6 F and R = 229 ohms. What fraction of the current goes through the capacitor when the frequency is 100 sec-1?

Homework Equations


I(resistor) = V/R
I(capacitor) = C * (dV/dt) = ω*C*V (?)

The Attempt at a Solution


Ic / (Ir + Ic) = [ω*C*V] / [(V/R) + (ω*C*V)] reduces to [ω*C*R] / [1 + ω*C*R]
The answer I got was 0.106569. I don't know if the work is wrong or if the format of my answer wrong, like is that the "fraction" or do I have to do something else to it? Thanks.
 
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The problem here is that I_tot does not equal Ir+Ic. The instantaneous current at any point in time does obey I_tot=Ir+Ic, but not the effective current in an AC circuit. You have to calculate the total effective current in a different way (what way?)
 
The only thing I can find is for an RC circuit in series. is it the same for parallel?
 
do you mean I_tot (sqrt 2)? can someone please help me it's almost due :/
 

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