Ranking capacitors by the potential difference across them.

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on ranking capacitors C1, C2, and C3 based on the potential difference across them in a circuit configuration. Capacitor C1 has a capacitance of 3C, while C2 and C3 have capacitances of C and 5C, respectively. The voltage across capacitors in parallel (C2 and C3) is equal, while C1 is in series with the equivalent capacitance of C2 and C3. The participants conclude that the potential differences rank as V1 > V2 = V3, with V1 being the voltage across C1 and V2 and V3 being equal voltages across C2 and C3.

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dswatson
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I have a circuit that is in a read only file so I can't get an image on here so I will try to create it on here


B-battery
C-capacitor


----C1-------------
l.....l...l
B...C2...C3
l.....l...l
--------------------

Ignore the periods (.) because they are just place holders. The lower case L (l) are vertical wires and the dashs (-) are horizontal wires
Ok so here I have C2 and C3 in parallel and C1 is in series with the equivalent of C2 + C3

C1=3C
C2=C
C3=5C

I am supposed to rank these from largest to smallest using their potential differences. Conceptually I know that V1>V2=V3 and I can explain it, the voltage splits evenly across C2 and C3 and C1~2C2, if I am thinking correctly. I have to show this mathematically and I'm not sure how to go about doing so. If someone could help me I would greatly appreciate it.
 
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hi dswatson! :smile:

(try using the X2 icon just above the Reply box :wink:)
dswatson said:
C1=3C
C2=C
C3=5C

I am supposed to rank these from largest to smallest using their potential differences. Conceptually I know that V1>V2=V3 and I can explain it, the voltage splits evenly across C2 and C3 and C1~2C2, if I am thinking correctly. I have to show this mathematically …

saying the voltage splits evenly across C2 and C3 is slightly missing the point …

the voltage is the same across C2 and C3, because it is always the same between any two particular points, no matter which path you take

what do you mean by "C1~2C2"? :confused:

you need to find the equivalent capacitance of C2 and C3 combined …

what is it? :smile:​
 

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