RC Circuit: charges on two capacitors

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on analyzing the charge distribution on two capacitors in series after a switch is closed. The relevant equation used is q=C E(1-e^(-t/RC), which describes the charging behavior of capacitors. The user emphasizes the importance of understanding battery polarities when calculating the total voltage in the circuit. A recommended resource for further clarification is the website "Electronics Tutorials," which provides comprehensive explanations of capacitor behavior.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of RC circuits and time constants
  • Familiarity with capacitor charging equations
  • Knowledge of series circuits and voltage addition
  • Basic grasp of electrical polarity and its significance
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of time constants in RC circuits
  • Learn about the behavior of capacitors in series and parallel configurations
  • Explore the detailed workings of the equation q=C E(1-e^(-t/RC)
  • Review resources on circuit analysis techniques, particularly for series circuits
USEFUL FOR

Students studying electrical engineering, educators teaching circuit theory, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of capacitor behavior in RC circuits.

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Homework Statement



At t=0m the switch is open and both capacitors are uncharged. What are the charges on each plate (magnitude and sign) of each capacitor long after the switch is closed and capacitors are fully charged?

Homework Equations



q=C E(1-e^(-t/RC)

The Attempt at a Solution



I was sick during the weed we did circuits and am pretty lost. I get confused about what is happening conceptually and how to use that to find an answer.
 

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You've got capacitors in series and batteries in series. Add the batteries (watch their polarities) then have a look http://www.electronics-tutorials.ws/capacitor/cap_7.html" .
 
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This explains things a lot better than my choppy physics notes I managed to get from my classmates. I did the problem and I am feeling a lot more confident about circuits and capacitors in general. I will definitely keep this website in my bookmarks!
 

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