How Do You Calculate Total Capacitance in a Mixed Series-Parallel Circuit?

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To calculate total capacitance in a mixed series-parallel circuit, start by identifying which capacitors are in parallel and which are in series. The user initially calculated two middle capacitors in parallel as 24pF and assumed the other two were in series, resulting in 8pF, totaling 32pF. However, upon reevaluation, the correct total capacitance was determined to be 6pF. This highlights the importance of carefully analyzing the configuration of capacitors in the circuit. Accurate calculations are essential for solving capacitance problems effectively.
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Homework Statement


http://img158.imageshack.us/img158/9616/capacitanceqj8.jpg

C = 12pF

Homework Equations


The basic equations for capacitance in series and capacitance in parallel, which I assume everyone knows

The Attempt at a Solution



Well I calculated the two capacitors in the middle in parallel, which is 24pF
And I assumed the other two are in series, which means it is 8pF

A total of 32pF, but that's not the answer listed in multiple choice.

Help?
 
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Nvm, I did it wrong, got the answer: 6pF
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

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