Find Final Voltage of Parallel Capacitors

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SUMMARY

The final voltage across two parallel capacitors, one with a capacitance of 34.0 μF charged to 126 μC and the other with a capacitance of 125 μF charged to 250 μC, is calculated using the formula C=Q/Vc. The total charge is 376 μC, and the total capacitance is 159 μF, resulting in a final voltage of 2.36 V. The concept of initial voltage is irrelevant in this context as the capacitors are connected in a manner that equalizes the voltage across them.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of capacitor charging and discharging principles
  • Familiarity with the formula C=Q/Vc
  • Knowledge of parallel circuit configurations
  • Basic electrical engineering concepts related to voltage and charge
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  • Explore the implications of connecting capacitors with different initial charges
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Homework Statement



Two capacitors of 34.0 μF and 125 μF are separately charged to 126 μC and 250 μC, respectively. They are then attached in parallel so that the + plate of one goes to the - plate of the other, and vice versa. Determine the final voltage across the two plates.

Homework Equations



C=Q/Vc

The Attempt at a Solution



I calculated the change in voltage by adding Q1 and Q2 and then dividing by the sum of C1 and C2. (126+250)/(34+125)=2.36 V. How do I find the initial voltage so that I can get the final voltage?
 
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Note how the 2 caps are attached to each other. "Initial voltage" does not seem like a relevant concept.
 

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