Finding R(t) in discharging RC circuit

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The discussion focuses on finding the time-dependent resistance function R(t) for a discharging RC circuit with a constant current. The initial resistance at t = 0 is given as R0, and the user attempts to derive R(t) using the equation for current, I, which assumes R is constant. Confusion arises due to the presence of R in the exponential term of the derived equations, leading to difficulties in isolating R(t). Participants clarify that the equations used assume constant resistance, which does not apply in this scenario, and emphasize the need to consider how charge changes over time during the discharge process. The conversation highlights the complexities of integrating variable resistance into the analysis of capacitor discharge.
ddobre
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Homework Statement


A charged capacitor with capacitance C is being discharged through a variable resistor that has its resistance dependent on time: R = R(t). Find function R(t) if the current through the resistor remains constant until the capacitor is completely discharged and the resistance at the initial moment of the discharge process (t = 0) is equal to R0

Homework Equations


(1) I = (Q0/RC)e-t/RC
(2,3) Q0=Cε, Q = Cεe-t/RC
t = RC
IR = Q/C

The Attempt at a Solution


Since I know I is contant, and at t = 0, R=R0, I tried to use equation (1) for R and at t = 0, when R = R0, so that I could equate the two equations and try to solve for R. This is what I started with:
Q0/R0C0 = (Q/RC)e-t/RC
I ended up with something like:
R = (QR0C0/Q0C)e-t/RC
But I was a little confused because there is still an R in the e expression. So I tried taking the natural log of each side, but what I ended up with didn't seem feasible. Any advice on what I should try to do?
 
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Isn't your eqn (1) a solution to a differential equation which assumes R is constant (the solution, not the equation)?
 
haruspex said:
Isn't your eqn (1) a solution to a differential equation which assumes R is constant (the solution, not the equation)?

I think so. But I was just trying to define R in some way. I'm having trouble trying to find an equation for R(t)
 
ddobre said:
I think so. But I was just trying to define R in some way. I'm having trouble trying to find an equation for R(t)
See the first equation under https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capacitor#DC_circuits
It is an integral equation, and it is obviously true. The equation just below it is obtained by differentiating it, but on the assumption that R is constant, so that second equation does not apply here.
Instead, you have that the current is constant.
 
When a capacitor C charged with Q is connected to a resistor R, current I will flow, and the capacitor voltage is Uc-RI=0. The capacitor voltage is Uc=Q/C and the current is defined as I=dQ/dt. The current is flowing off the capacitor now, so it decreases the charge on it.If it is constant, I =-I0, how does the charge change with time during the discharge?
 
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