Finding the charge on a capacitor

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    Capacitor Charge
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SUMMARY

The charge on the 32 μF capacitor can be calculated using the formula Q = CV, where C is the capacitance and V is the voltage across the capacitor. In this discussion, the user initially attempted to find the charge by dividing the total charge by 2, which is incorrect for capacitors in series. The correct approach requires understanding the potential difference between nodes and the charge distribution in series configurations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of capacitor configurations, specifically series and parallel connections.
  • Familiarity with the formula Q = CV for calculating charge.
  • Knowledge of voltage distribution across capacitors in series.
  • Basic principles of electrical circuits and charge conservation.
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the concept of charge distribution in capacitors connected in series.
  • Study the implications of potential difference in capacitor circuits.
  • Learn about calculating equivalent capacitance for series and parallel combinations.
  • Explore practical applications of capacitors in electrical circuits.
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Students studying electrical engineering, physics enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to understand capacitor behavior in circuits.

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Homework Statement


http://screencast.com/t/B4865iOOLzX
What is the charge on the 32 μF centered-
upper capacitor?
Answer in units of μC


Homework Equations


Q = CV
1/c = 1/c1 + 1/c2...



The Attempt at a Solution


I found the charge across the entire thing and then divided that by 2, since the charge should be the same on all the plates. But that was wrong.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
What's the potential difference between nodes c and d?

What do you know about the charge distribution on capacitors connected in series?
 

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