Solve Series RLC Circuit for Capacitor Value

In summary, we discussed a series RLC circuit with an applied voltage of 160 V and frequency of 53 Hz. We then solved for the value of the capacitor that would cause the voltage across it to be out of phase with the applied voltage by 56 degrees. Using the equations cos(phi)=R/Z and Z=SQRT(R^2 + (X_L-X_C)^2), we determined that the angle \phi is equal to atan\left(\frac{X_L - X_C}{R}\right), which in this case is 90 degrees minus the original angle.
  • #1
Idividebyzero
64
0
1. Consider a series RLC circuit. The applied
voltage has a maximum value of 160 V and
oscillates at a frequency of 53 Hz. The circuit
contains a variable capacitor, a 760 Ω resistor,
and a 5.7 H inductor.
Determine the value of the capacitor such
that the voltage across the capacitor is out of
phase with the applied voltage by 56 degrees.

Answer in units of µF.




2. cos(phi)= R/Z
Z=SQRT(R^2 + (X_L-X_C)^2)
X_L= 2*pi*f*L
X_C=1/2*pi*f*C




3.first solved the equation cos(phi)=R/Z for the impedence Z. Z=R/cos(phi)

then proceeded to use the Z value in the second equation Z=SQRT(R^2 + (X_L-X_C)^2). squared both sides. then squared the given R. Subtracted R to the other side. (Z^2-R^2)= (X_L-X_c)2

square root both sides. then subracted X_l=2*Pi*f*l from the right to the left side. leaves a negative value on the left and the right so that negatives cancel, leaving a numerical value on the left and a X_c=1/2*pi*f*C on the right. inverted the left and the right. then divided the 2*pi*f on both sides. leaving c. the answer was incorrect.
 
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  • #2
Keep in mind that you're looking for the relative phase of the voltage across the capacitor, not the phase of the current with respect to the voltage. The voltage across the capacitor will lag the current (by how much?).
 
  • #3
the only thing that i can think of is the angle is wrong... 90-phi ?
 
  • #4
The angle [itex]\phi[/itex] that you've found is the angle by which the supply voltage leads the current in the circuit. The voltage on the capacitor will lag the current by 90°.

A simpler expression for [itex]\phi[/itex] is
[tex] \phi = atan\left(\frac{X_L - X_C}{R}\right)[/tex]
If you determine what [itex]\phi[/itex] should be given the relationships between the relative angles of the voltage on the capacitor and the current, and the current and the voltage supply, you should be home-free.
 
  • #5
thanks I've called it a night, going to tackle it again in the morning. assignments not due until friday and I've only got this problem left
 
  • #6
gneill said:
The angle [itex]\phi[/itex] that you've found is the angle by which the supply voltage leads the current in the circuit. The voltage on the capacitor will lag the current by 90°.

A simpler expression for [itex]\phi[/itex] is
[tex] \phi = atan\left(\frac{X_L - X_C}{R}\right)[/tex]
If you determine what [itex]\phi[/itex] should be given the relationships between the relative angles of the voltage on the capacitor and the current, and the current and the voltage supply, you should be home-free.

This was it except the Phi term is acually 90-phi
 

1. What is a series RLC circuit?

A series RLC circuit is a circuit that contains a resistor (R), inductor (L), and capacitor (C) connected in series. This type of circuit is commonly used in electronic devices and is used to control the flow of current.

2. How do you solve for the capacitor value in a series RLC circuit?

To solve for the capacitor value in a series RLC circuit, you can use the formula 1/ωC = √(1/ωL - R^2), where ω is the angular frequency of the circuit. This formula can be rearranged to solve for C, which will give you the capacitor value.

3. What is the purpose of the capacitor in a series RLC circuit?

The capacitor in a series RLC circuit is used to store and release electrical energy. It acts as a temporary storage unit and can help stabilize the current flow in the circuit.

4. Can the capacitor value be too high or too low in a series RLC circuit?

Yes, the capacitor value can affect the performance of the circuit. If the capacitor value is too low, it may not be able to store enough energy to stabilize the current flow. If it is too high, it may slow down the current flow and affect the overall performance of the circuit.

5. How do you choose the right capacitor value for a series RLC circuit?

The right capacitor value for a series RLC circuit depends on various factors such as the desired current flow, frequency, and other components in the circuit. It is important to carefully calculate and select the appropriate capacitor value to ensure the circuit functions properly.

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