How Do I Calculate the Charge Over Time in Simple RC Circuits?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating charge over time in simple RC circuits. The first circuit configuration with resistors R1 and R2 in series with a capacitor C is equivalent to a single resistor for voltage versus time calculations. For the second circuit, applying Kirchhoff's Current Law (KCL) is necessary to analyze the charge dynamics, particularly at the node connecting the resistor and capacitor. The rate of charging and final charge will differ between the two configurations due to their distinct resistor arrangements. Understanding these principles is crucial for accurately determining capacitor behavior in RC circuits.
stephencohorn
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Ok, if I have a Battery B, Resistors R1, R2, and Capacitor C in this circuit:
(the ...'s just represent empty space, spaces were getting eaten when I previewed the post)

|----------R1--------|
|......|
B+......|
B-......C
|......|
|---------R2---------|

is this equivalent to:

|--------R1--------R2---|
|.......|
B+......C
B-......|
|.......|
|------------------------|

if not, how would you get the charge as a function of time for the first circuit?
also, how would you get the charge as a function of time for the following circuit?

|---------------|---------|
|.....|....|
|.....C...|
B+......|...R
B-......R...|
|.....|...|
|-------------------------|

any conceptual comments on how these two would compare speaking of rate of chargeing, final charge, etc?

Any help would be appreciated, I'm struggling with this stuff.
Thanks,
Stephen
 
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please can you help me to solve my problem
 
can anyone help me out?
 
Combining R1 and R2 in the first circuit to make the 2nd circuit is fine, if you are wanting to calculate the capacitor voltage versus time.

For the 3rd circuit, you will need to write the KCL equations for each of the nodes, including the node between the bottom R and the capacitor.
 

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