Equivalent capaticnace, charge, voltage

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the equivalent capacitance of a circuit involving capacitors in both series and parallel configurations. The user successfully determined the equivalent capacitance for three capacitors in parallel and two in series, arriving at values of 13 µF and 35/12 µF respectively. The final equivalent capacitance was calculated as 131/12 µF when combining these results. The user seeks clarification on how to derive charge and voltage from the equivalent capacitance using the formula Q=VC.

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  • Basic circuit analysis skills
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JSmith2009
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Homework Statement


Find the equivalent capacitance of the circuit below. Also determine the charge of each capacitor and the potential difference across each capacitor.

http://img18.imageshack.us/img18/2616/physicss.jpg


Homework Equations


Q=VC

Parallel Ceq = C1+C2+C3
V1=V2=V3
Q=Q1+Q2+Q3

Series Ceq = (1/Ceq)=(1/C1)+(1/C2)+(1/C3)
Q1=Q2=Q3
V=V1+V2+V3

The Attempt at a Solution


I sort of figured out the equivalent capacitance. Adding the 3 in parallel as well as the two in series on the right side, you get 13 across the top and (35/12) on the right side. Then adding the 8 and (35/12) in parallel, you get (131/12). How do I figure out capacitance from there?

I *should* be able to figure out charge/voltage from there and if not, will come back.

Thanks much!
 
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JSmith2009 said:
How do I figure out capacitance from there?

All I can say is don't stop there. Now all you have left is the 13 capacitor and the 131/12 capacitor in series. Clearly you know what to do.
 
Well, I wasn't sure if it was in series or not. I don't know why, but for some reason my mind kept telling me that it wasn't a series connector.

I guess I just needed some reassurance. Thanks :)
 

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