Discharging a capacitor through a resistor

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the capacitance (C) of a capacitor discharging through a resistor (R) in a circuit. The time taken for the charge to drop to 47% of its initial value is given as 2.83 seconds, with R specified as 1340 ohms. The correct approach involves using the equation Q = C*Vo*e^(-t/RC) to derive the capacitance, leading to the conclusion that the initial calculation of 4993 μF was incorrect. The accurate capacitance can be determined by rearranging the equation and substituting the known values.

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callawee
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In the circuit below, the time required (s) for the charge on the capacitor to drop to 47% of its value after the switch is closed is 2.83 s. If R = 1340 ohms, what is C in μF (microfarad)?


(dq/dt) + q/(RC) = 0

(.47q)/(t) = q/(RC)
t/(.47R)= C
Convert C from F to uF by multiplying by 10^6

I am getting 4993 uF, but that is the wrong answer and I'm not sure where I'm going wrong. Thanks for any help.
 

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callawee said:
In the circuit below, the time required (s) for the charge on the capacitor to drop to 47% of its value after the switch is closed is 2.83 s. If R = 1340 ohms, what is C in μF (microfarad)?

(dq/dt) + q/(RC) = 0

(.47q)/(t) = q/(RC)
t/(.47R)= C
Convert C from F to uF by multiplying by 10^6

I am getting 4993 uF, but that is the wrong answer and I'm not sure where I'm going wrong. Thanks for any help.

Welcome to PF.

Maybe try starting with an equation that describes the discharging of a capacitor?

Q = C*Vo*e-t/rc

Plugging the values and dividing by Q = CVo at t=0

.47 = e-2.83/1340*C
 
Thank you, the equation worked!
 

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