The discussion clarifies the two equations governing the voltage behavior in RC circuits: V(t) = Vo*e^(-t/RC) for discharging capacitors and Vc = Vs(1-e^-t/RC) for charging capacitors. The key distinction lies in their application; the first equation describes the voltage decay over time, while the second illustrates the voltage rise. Evaluating both equations at t = 0 and t → ∞ confirms their respective behaviors. The confusion regarding logarithmic functions is addressed, emphasizing that the equations involve exponential functions, not logarithmic ones.
PREREQUISITESElectrical engineering students, hobbyists working with circuits, and anyone seeking to understand the dynamics of charging and discharging capacitors in RC circuits.
thanks!kuruman said:One of the equations is for a charging capacitor and the other for a discharging capacitor. To figure out which is which, evaluate each expression at t = 0 and at t → ∞ .
It is not a log; it is a negative exponential.ace8888 said:One has a 1 - the natural log
haruspex said:It is not a log; it is a negative exponential.
Do you understand what these two curves look like?