Capacitor Voltage Equations: Explained

In summary, there are two equations for the voltage of a typical RC circuit, one for a charging capacitor and one for a discharging capacitor. To differentiate between the two, one must evaluate each expression at t = 0 and t → ∞. The main difference between the two equations is that one has a natural exponential while the other has a negative exponential. They are inverse of each other.
  • #1
ace8888
19
0

Homework Statement


Hi, I've run into two different equations for the voltage of a typical RC circuit, one resistor, and one capacitor.
Please explain the different between the two. One has a 1 - the natural log and the other one doesnt.

Homework Equations


1. V(t) = Vo*e^(-t/RC)

2. Vc = Vs(1-e^-t/RC)

The Attempt at a Solution

 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
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 → ∞ .
 
  • #3
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 → ∞ .
thanks!
 
  • #4
ace8888 said:
One has a 1 - the natural log
It is not a log; it is a negative exponential.
Do you understand what these two curves look like?
 
  • #5
haruspex said:
It is not a log; it is a negative exponential.
Do you understand what these two curves look like?

Typo, yes it is the natural exponent. I don't know why but i was thinking exponent and typed log. They are inverse of each other.
 

1. What is a capacitor voltage equation?

A capacitor voltage equation is a mathematical formula used to calculate the voltage across a capacitor in a circuit. It takes into account the capacitance of the capacitor, the current flowing through the circuit, and the time it has been charging or discharging.

2. How is a capacitor voltage equation derived?

A capacitor voltage equation is derived from the fundamental principles of electric circuits and the behavior of capacitors. It is based on the relationship between charge, voltage, and capacitance, as well as the rate of change of voltage over time.

3. What factors affect the voltage across a capacitor?

The voltage across a capacitor is affected by its capacitance, the amount of charge stored on the plates, the current flowing through the circuit, and the time elapsed since the capacitor was charged or discharged. Additionally, the type and quality of the dielectric material between the plates can also affect the voltage.

4. How can the capacitor voltage equation be used in practical applications?

The capacitor voltage equation is used in various practical applications, such as in electronic circuits, power supplies, and energy storage systems. It allows engineers to design and analyze circuits that use capacitors, and to predict the behavior of the voltage over time.

5. Are there any limitations to the capacitor voltage equation?

Like any mathematical model, the capacitor voltage equation has its limitations. It assumes ideal conditions, such as a constant current and perfect dielectric material, which may not always be the case in real-world scenarios. Additionally, the equation may become less accurate when dealing with high frequencies or high voltages.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
20
Views
417
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
20
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
810
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
324
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
6K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
2K
Back
Top