Determining current from charge function

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The discussion revolves around calculating the current flowing in a circuit using the charge function Q(t) = 100[e^(+t/100) + 0.01t^2]. At t = 10 seconds, the charge is calculated to be 210.5 coulombs, but there is confusion regarding the correct method to find the current. The user initially uses I = Q(10)/10, leading to a current of 21.05 amperes, but realizes that the correct approach is to differentiate Q(t) to find I(t) = dQ/dt. Despite confirming the charge calculation, the user is puzzled about the discrepancy between their result and the expected 47.2 amperes. The conversation emphasizes the importance of using differentiation to find the current correctly.
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Homework Statement



the amount of charge flwoing past a point in a current in a circuit is found to vary with time as follows:

Q(t) = 100[e^(+t/100) + 0.01t^2]

what is the current flowing at t = 10 seconds?

i am supposed to get 47.2 amperes

Homework Equations



C = Q/V ---> Q = CV where C is capacitance, V is electric potential, Q is charge

V = IR ----> I = V/R = dW/dt where R is resistance, W is work, t is time

The Attempt at a Solution



first solve the function in terms of t = 10 seconds

Q(10) = 100[e^(+10/100) + 0.01(10^2)] = 100[ 1.105 + 1] = 100(2.105) = 210.5 coulombs

since Q = CV and V = IR ---> Q = CIR now if i let Q = 210.5 coulombs, i don't have values for R or C, I'm solving for I.

am i using the wrong approach entirely or the wrong equation?

help appreciated
 
Last edited:
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The current flowing is numerically equal to the The rate of change of charge per unit time
 
do you mean I = dQ/t? i thought I = dW/dt, anyways if i used I = dQ/t = 210.5/10 = 21.05 amperes, I'm supposed to get 47.2 amperes

by the way, did i solve for charge Q correctly?
 
I = dQ/dt... meaning you have to differentiate Q(t).
I(10) = dQ/dt | t=10, not I = Q(10)/10... they are completely different expressions.
 
\frac{dW}{dt}=Power


but I think you'll get the 21.05A. Not sure how to squeeze the 47.2A answer though.
But that is how you would do the problem,using I=\frac{dQ}{dt}
 
you are right, dW/dt is power, i must've gotten it confused with dQ/dt, thanks for clearing that up.

did i solve for Q correctly though?
 
Looks correct to me.
 
does anybody know why i am getting 21.05 ampere, when i should be getting 47.2 ampere?

thanks
 

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