Energy stored in a LC circuit

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the energy dynamics in an LC circuit, specifically analyzing the energy stored in the inductor and capacitor. When the current is flowing, all energy is stored in the inductor, while the capacitor holds all energy when the current ceases. The problem presented involves calculating the fraction of energy stored in the inductor when the capacitor holds half of its maximum charge, leading to the conclusion that the energy distribution shifts as the charge changes. The equations used include the energy formulas for both the capacitor and inductor: U = 1/2 * Q^2/C for the capacitor and U = 1/2 * LI^2 for the inductor.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of LC circuit dynamics
  • Familiarity with energy equations for capacitors and inductors
  • Knowledge of charge (Q), inductance (L), and current (I) relationships
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of energy conservation in LC circuits
  • Learn about the role of inductance and capacitance in energy storage
  • Explore the effects of varying charge on energy distribution in circuits
  • Investigate the implications of maximum charge and current flow in circuit behavior
USEFUL FOR

Students studying electrical engineering, physics enthusiasts, and anyone interested in understanding energy storage in LC circuits.

Luek
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Homework Statement


Energy in the circuit remains constant. When the current is flowing, the energy stored is all stored in the inductor. When the current stops flowing, it is because all the energy is stored in the capacitor.
Find the fraction of energy stored in the inductor when half of the max charge is on the capacitor.

L = inductor
C = capacitor
I = current

Homework Equations


1/2 *Q^2/C = U of capacitor
1/2 * LI^2 = U of inductor

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
Didn't know where to really go.

1/2 *Q^2/C + 1/2 * LI^2 = U
Q= .5Q
1/8Q^2/C + x*LI^2 =U
x= 7/8?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
When all the energy is in the capacitor (maximum charge) there is no energy in the inductor (current is zero). So start by positing some initial total energy U and determine the maximum charge associated with it. What happens when that charge is reduced to half and current is flowing?
 

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