Ranking capacitors by the potential difference across them.

[dswatson]

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.

 

[tiny-tim]

hi dswatson!

(try using the X₂ icon just above the Reply box )

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"?

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

what is it? ​