Changing the distance between capacitor plates

In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between distance, voltage, charge, and capacitance in a system of two parallel plates connected to a battery. The question asks which statement is true when the distance between the plates is increased. Through equations and discussion, it is determined that the charge on the plates will decrease and the capacitance will increase. The role of the battery in this relationship is also considered.
  • #1
Feodalherren
605
6

Homework Statement



1. The distance between two parallel plates is increased while they remain hooked to a battery. Which one of the following statements is true?

The voltage between the plates will decrease.
The electric field between the plates will increase.
The charge on the plates will decrease.
The capacitance of these two plates will increase.
None of the above.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution




So for question one,
What does the battery have to do with anything!? That just means that the voltage is constant?

C = εA / d

So if distance is increased the answer is supposed to be that the charge will decrease. What?! Doesn't make any sense. What does the charge have to do with anything? I thought the charge came from the electrons moving around, so why would moving the plates affect the electrons at all?
 
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  • #2
Think about what other equation relates capacitance, charge and voltage
 
  • #3
C = Q/V

I'm trying to get the physical picture. What exactly is going on here?

I've googled and searched for videos on youtube. I can't find anything that explains it.
 
  • #4
If d changes then c changes. Now think about the second eqn.
 
  • #5
Perhaps think what would happen if the plates were moved with and without the battery connected. What can and can't change with or without the battery connected and why.
 

Related to Changing the distance between capacitor plates

1. How does changing the distance between capacitor plates affect the capacitance?

Changing the distance between capacitor plates affects the capacitance by directly proportional relationship. The closer the plates are, the higher the capacitance will be. This is because the electric field between the plates becomes stronger, allowing for more charge to be stored.

2. Can changing the distance between capacitor plates change the capacitor's ability to store charge?

Yes, changing the distance between capacitor plates can change the capacitor's ability to store charge. As mentioned before, the closer the plates are, the stronger the electric field becomes and thus, more charge can be stored. On the other hand, increasing the distance between the plates decreases the capacitance and therefore, decreases the amount of charge that can be stored.

3. How does changing the distance between capacitor plates affect the energy stored in the capacitor?

The energy stored in a capacitor is directly proportional to the capacitance and the square of the voltage. Therefore, changing the distance between capacitor plates will also affect the energy stored. As the distance decreases, the capacitance increases and thus, the energy stored also increases.

4. Does changing the distance between capacitor plates affect the capacitance of all types of capacitors?

Yes, changing the distance between capacitor plates affects the capacitance of all types of capacitors. This is because capacitance is a fundamental property of capacitors and is determined by the distance between the plates, the surface area of the plates, and the type of material between the plates.

5. Is there a limit to how far apart or close together the capacitor plates can be?

There is no specific limit to how far apart or close together the capacitor plates can be, as it depends on the specific design and materials used in the capacitor. However, there are practical limitations such as the physical size of the capacitor and the dielectric breakdown strength of the material between the plates. It is important to follow the manufacturer's specifications for safe and optimal use of a capacitor.

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