Equivalent Capacitance question

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To find the equivalent capacitance in a circuit with both series and parallel capacitors, first identify which capacitors are in series and which are in parallel. Capacitors in series require the inverse formula for combining capacitance, while those in parallel can be added directly. In the discussed problem, C1 and C2 are in series, and their equivalent capacitance is combined with C3, which is in parallel with the resultant capacitor. The final equivalent capacitance calculated is 6.71 picofarads. Understanding the arrangement of capacitors is crucial for accurate calculations.
kankerfist
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I have learned how to find equivalent capacitence when capacitors are in series and when they are in parallel, but I came across a problem where I'm confused about the capacitors:
confused.jpg

Normally I first find equivalent capacitence of parallel capacitors by adding them together. Then use the formula for finding the equivalent capacitence for capacitors in series. I am not sure exacty how to define the above capacitors though, which ones are parallel (able to be added together) and which ones are in series (inverses are able to be added together)?

The answer that my book provedes is: C eq = 6.71 picoferads

Any help would be appreciated!
 
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In this question I would find the equivalent capacitance of C1 and C2 (as they are in series) and combine them into a single capacitor (C4); and then treat it is as if C4 and C3 were two single capacitors in parallel. Does that make sense?
 
That does make sense! Thanks
 
kankerfist said:
That does make sense! Thanks
My pleasure.
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

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