How Does Capacitor Configuration Affect the RC Circuit Time Constant?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on determining the time constant of an RC circuit with three identical capacitors connected in two different configurations. The time constant for the first configuration (circuit A) is given as 0.34 seconds. To find the time constant for the second configuration (circuit B), the capacitance must first be expressed in terms of the time constant from circuit A. This involves calculating the equivalent capacitance for both configurations using series and parallel combination formulas. Ultimately, two equations for the time constants are established, allowing for the calculation of the time constant in circuit B.
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Homework Statement



Three identical capacitors are connected with a resistor in two different ways. When they are connected as in part A of the drawing, the time constant to charge up this circuit is .34s. What is the time constant when they are connected with the same resistor as in part B?


Homework Equations



t = RC

The Attempt at a Solution



I think the first thing I would need to do is find the capacitance of the first circuit, but I don't know how to do that since I only know the time.
 

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Can you find an expression for the capacitance, C, using the time constant given?

HINT: Solve for C in terms of \tau using info from circuit A. Then use that expression for C to solve for the time constant in circuit B.
 
Find the equivalent capacitance in the circuit A and B using series and parallel combination formula.
Then write two equations for time constant, one for A and other for B.
From them find the time constant of B
 

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