Determining Horizontal Sweep for RC Circuit Time Constant - Physics Lab

AI Thread Summary
In a series RC circuit with a resistance of 3.0 and a capacitance of 12 µF charged to 5.0 V, the vertical gain on the oscilloscope should be set to 1.25 V/DIV to achieve a vertical displacement of 4.0 DIV. The discussion highlights confusion regarding the horizontal sweep setting needed for the characteristic time constant to span 2.0 DIV on the oscilloscope. Participants are encouraged to research the characteristic time for an RC circuit, which is linked to the time constant. The formula for the time constant is essential for solving the horizontal sweep value. Understanding the relationship between the time constant and the oscilloscope settings is crucial for completing the lab assignment.
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Consider a series RC circuit with an
R = 3.0 Ω
and a capacitance of 12 µF being charged to a voltage of 5.0 V. (Note, you will not include units in your answers.)

If you wished the charging of this capacitor to have a vertical displacement of 4.0 DIV from 0 charge to fully charged, what value must you set the vertical gain on the oscilloscope to achieve this?
- FOUND THIS ONE: 1.25 V/DIV

What is the value of the horizontal sweep that you would need to use if you wished the characteristic time constant of this circuit to span 2.0 DIV on the oscilloscope screen?
-LOST HERE.

So i am having trouble understanding the last part and am down to one try...we are also doing this lab BEFORE having covered this in lecture soo I am kinda lost...
 
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Look up characteristic time for an RC circuit. It is a simple formula, use it and the second part is very similar to the first part.
 
mfb said:
Look up characteristic time for an RC circuit. It is a simple formula, use it and the second part is very similar to the first part.
I tried looking this up but am not sure what you mean?

Again we just started RC Circuits so I am a little lost..
 
The characteristic time is related to the time constant of the RC circuit.
 
thanks!
 
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