Electric circuit and capacitance

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the behavior of current in circuits with parallel plate capacitors, particularly focusing on their response to DC and AC voltages. Participants explore the implications of charge storage in capacitors and how it affects current flow.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question whether current passes through parallel plate capacitors when introduced into a circuit.
  • There is a suggestion that current does not pass because capacitors store charges, leading to a debate about the nature of current flow in this context.
  • One participant highlights the distinction between AC and DC voltages, indicating that the behavior of capacitors differs based on the type of voltage applied.
  • Another participant mentions that if the insulating material between capacitor plates is perfect, then no current passes, but acknowledges that AC can lead to current displacement.
  • A later reply asks about how the impedance of a capacitor varies with AC frequency, indicating a deeper inquiry into the topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether current passes through capacitors, particularly in relation to AC versus DC voltage. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing perspectives on the behavior of capacitors.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the assumptions made about the ideal behavior of capacitors and the definitions of current flow in the context of AC and DC voltages. The discussion does not resolve the mathematical implications of impedance in relation to frequency.

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Does current pass when parallel plate capacitors are introduced in circuit?
 
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shayan haider said:
Does current pass when parallel plate capacitors are introduced in circuit?

What are your thoughts? How does a capacitor behave for DC and AC voltages?
 
I think so that as the current is flow of charges but in this case the charges are being stored therefore current should not pass? Correct me if I am wrong.
 
shayan haider said:
I think so that as the current is flow of charges but in this case the charges are being stored therefore current should not pass? Correct me if I am wrong.

The key is in my hint about AC versus DC excitation voltages. What sources have you been using for reading/learning about capacitors and electronics? What do they say about your question?
 
berkeman said:
The key is in my hint about AC versus DC excitation voltages. What sources have you been using for reading/learning about capacitors and electronics? What do they say about your question?
It says that if the insulator between plates is perfect insulating material then no current passes and vice versa. If the source is DC, the current leakage would be low but if it is AC then there would be current displacement.
 
Correct. So how does the impedance of a capacitor vary with AC frequency?
 

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