Capacitors inserted into a circuit with opposite polarities

Click For Summary
When two capacitors, C1 = 5 μF and C2 = 2 μF, charged to 100 V are connected with opposite polarities, the potential difference between points A and B is not zero. This is because the charges on the connected plates of the capacitors are not equal and opposite, leading to a net voltage. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding charge distribution in capacitors connected in parallel. The final potential difference can be calculated using the formula C = Q / deltaV, taking into account the differing capacitances. The conclusion emphasizes that the resulting voltage will depend on the specific charge values on each capacitor.
Alfaraj
Messages
3
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



Two capacitors C1 = 5 μF and C2 = 2 μF are initially charged to a potential difference of V = 100 V. They are inserted into the circuit with opposite polarities as shown. Switches S1 and S2 are now closed. What is the magnitude of the potential difference between points A and B? (Answer in Volts.)

[PLAIN]http://img833.imageshack.us/img833/557/phyr.jpg

Homework Equations



C = Q / deltaV

The Attempt at a Solution



Since both capacitors have same potential difference since they are connected in parallel. I think the answer should be zero since we would have two opposite-sign voltages.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
No. The voltage will not be zero as the charges are not equal and opposite on the connected plates.

ehild
 
No. The voltage will not be zero as the charges are not equal and opposite on the connected plates.

ehild
 
Thread 'Correct statement about size of wire to produce larger extension'
The answer is (B) but I don't really understand why. Based on formula of Young Modulus: $$x=\frac{FL}{AE}$$ The second wire made of the same material so it means they have same Young Modulus. Larger extension means larger value of ##x## so to get larger value of ##x## we can increase ##F## and ##L## and decrease ##A## I am not sure whether there is change in ##F## for first and second wire so I will just assume ##F## does not change. It leaves (B) and (C) as possible options so why is (C)...

Similar threads

  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
827
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
14K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 30 ·
2
Replies
30
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K