Find the maximum potential difference that can be applied to a capacitor

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the capacitance and maximum potential difference for a Teflon-filled parallel-plate capacitor, given specific dimensions and properties. The subject area includes concepts from electrostatics and capacitor theory.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to calculate the capacitance using the provided formula and constants but expresses uncertainty about how to find the maximum potential difference. Participants question the need for the dielectric strength of Teflon and clarify the distinction between dielectric constant and dielectric strength.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring the relationship between the electric field and the maximum potential difference, with some guidance offered regarding the importance of dielectric strength. There is an ongoing inquiry into the necessary parameters for solving the problem, indicating a productive direction in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted ambiguity regarding the availability of dielectric strength values for Teflon, which may be necessary for further calculations. The original poster's uncertainty about the next steps reflects the constraints of the problem setup.

staticd
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Homework Statement


Determine a) the capacitance and b) the maximum potential difference that can be applied to a Teflon-filled parallel-plate capacitor having a plate area of 1.75 cm^2 and plate separation of .04 mm.

Homework Equations



A=.0175
d=.04e-3
k=2.1
C=k(epsilon-not)(A/d)
Vmax=E*d
Qmax=C*(delta)Vmax=C(Emax*d)

The Attempt at a Solution



C=2.1*8.85e-12*(.0175/.04e-3)=8.13e-9 F

If Vmax=E*d, how do I solve for E to find Vmax?

Not really sure where to go with this...
 
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Don't you need to know the dielectric strength of Teflon?
 
Donaldos said:
Don't you need to know the dielectric strength of Teflon?

That would be "k"-->k=2.1

I guess I need to know how to determine what the electric field is in between the plates, as a function of the dialectric.
 
Donaldos said:
Don't you need to know the dielectric strength of Teflon?

staticd said:
That would be "k"-->k=2.1
k is the dielectric constant. Dielectric strength is the maximum electric field that a material can withstand.

Chances are you were provided with dielectric strength values -- probably in your textbook. Check the relevant section, or try looking in the book's index.
 

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