Solving a Basic RC Circuit: Charge on Capacitor from 537 to 195 μC

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around an RC circuit problem involving a capacitor discharging from an initial charge of 537 μC to a final charge of 195 μC. Participants are tasked with determining the time required for this charge change, given specific values for resistance and capacitance.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the problem and the relevant equations. Another participant suggests using the time constant equation related to the discharge of a capacitor, indicating a potential approach to solving for time.

Discussion Status

Some guidance has been provided regarding the use of the time constant equation, and one participant confirms that this approach worked for them in the context of an online assignment. However, the original poster remains uncertain about the problem.

Contextual Notes

Participants are encouraged to use SI units, and there is an emphasis on ensuring proper unit conversion for capacitance. The original poster's lack of knowledge about the equations suggests a need for further clarification on the underlying concepts.

CompEguy
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Homework Statement



The capacitor in the circuit has 537 μC of charge on it at t=0. The resistor is 1,923 Ohms, and the capacitor is 1,251 microFarads

How long will it take for the charge on the capacitor to drop to 195 μC?

Please use only SI (metric) system units in your answer!

Homework Equations



?? I do not know.


The Attempt at a Solution



I am so lost.
 

Attachments

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CompEguy said:

Homework Statement



The capacitor in the circuit has 537 μC of charge on it at t=0. The resistor is 1,923 Ohms, and the capacitor is 1,251 microFarads

How long will it take for the charge on the capacitor to drop to 195 μC?

Please use only SI (metric) system units in your answer!

Homework Equations



?? I do not know.


The Attempt at a Solution



I am so lost.

Use the time constant equation for a drop:

Qf= Qo e^-t/T, where T is the time constant, or R x C. You know or can find all of these variables, and solve the equation for t. Make sure you convert your C to Farads.

I think this is correct. I'm only an undergrad student, but just had an exam containing RC circuits and did really well.
 
Thank you. This did work. It is an online assignment so I can check my answer right away.
 
CompEguy said:
Thank you. This did work. It is an online assignment so I can check my answer right away.

Cool. Glad I actually did learn something in Physics class lol.
 

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