(Conceptual) questions about capacitors, circuits

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the behavior of capacitors in circuits, specifically addressing the discharge process when a switch is opened. When the switch is opened at t = 0s, the capacitor discharges solely through the 10 ohm and 40 ohm resistors due to the infinite resistance presented by the open switch, preventing any current from flowing to the battery or the 60 ohm resistor. This illustrates the fundamental principle that current cannot flow through an open circuit.

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I have (conceptual) questions about this question posted before:

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=386071

On the second part of the question (part B: The switch is opened at t = 0s. At what time has the charge on the capacitor decreased to 12% of its initial value?), why does the capacitor only discharge through the 10 ohm and 40 ohm resistors? Why doesn't any charge reach the battery or the 60 ohm resistor?

Thanks.
 
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because the switch is OPEN...so it's an infinite resistance...no current flows there.
 

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