Discharging DC Circuit Modeling Question

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on modeling a DC circuit involving a capacitor, specifically deriving the voltage across the capacitor as a function of time. The user correctly derived the equation for the left figure as v_c(t) = v_0 * exp(-t/RC) but initially miscalculated the right figure, stating v_c(t) = v_0 * exp(t/RC) instead of the correct negative exponential form. The user identified their error as inconsistent current directions, which is crucial for accurate circuit modeling.

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Homework Statement


Hello all, I just have a quick question regarding the modeling of the following circuit (see attached).
I am trying to derive the equation for the voltage across the capacitor as a function of time. I come up with the correct result when the element polarities are the same (i.e. figure on the left) but do not when the polarities are opposite (right figure). I have attached a pdf file showing my work if you care to look it over. My resulting equations are:

Left figure:
v_c(t)=v_0*exp(-t/RC); CORRECT

Right figure:
v_c(t)=v_0*exp(t/RC); SHOULD BE NEG. IN EXP

I am a mech. eng. and thought that the polarity setup was irrelevant for modeling. Am I missing something? Thanks for the help!



Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 

Attachments

  • son.pdf
    son.pdf
    147.5 KB · Views: 285
  • RCCir.jpg
    RCCir.jpg
    6.7 KB · Views: 395
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Hey Guys,

I found my error. I had inconsistent current directions--silly mistake. My apologies.
 

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