What is the mistake in my series capacitors homework?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the calculation of voltage in a series capacitor configuration. The user initially miscalculated the total voltage as Vtotal=V1+V2/2+V3/3, which is incorrect. The correct approach involves recognizing that for capacitors in series, the effective capacitance is given by 1/Cs = 1/C + 1/2C + 1/3C, resulting in Cs = 6C/11. Consequently, the total voltage can be expressed as V = (11/6)(Q/C), which simplifies to V1.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of series capacitor configurations
  • Familiarity with the formula for effective capacitance
  • Knowledge of voltage-capacitance-charge relationships (V = Q/C)
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of effective capacitance in series circuits
  • Learn about the implications of voltage division in series capacitors
  • Explore practical applications of capacitors in electronic circuits
  • Investigate the behavior of capacitors under different charge conditions
USEFUL FOR

Students studying electrical engineering, physics enthusiasts, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of capacitor behavior in series circuits.

Physics news on Phys.org
V = q/c
so v = q/c + q/2c + q/3c
q/c(1+1/2+1/3)
q/c (11/6)
hope this helps
 
So total V is (11/6)q/c ? Can you explain how that is V1?
 
Instinctlol said:
So total V is (11/6)q/c ? Can you explain how that is V1?
I can't get you. Actually is 11/6 times the V
 
Capacitors are connected in series. So the effective capacitance is
1/Cs = 1/C + 1/2C + 1/3C
= 11/6C
Cs = 6C/11
Now substitute this value for C for the equation V = 11/6(Q/C) you ll get Q/C which is nothing but V or V1
Hope you got it now
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
3
Views
4K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
23
Views
13K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
5K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K