Tricky circuit calculating the total capacitance

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the equivalent capacitance between two points in a circuit involving capacitors C1 and C2, with values of 4.10 μC and 1.60 μC respectively. The problem is noted to be complex, as it does not conform to simple series or parallel configurations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants express uncertainty about how to approach the problem, particularly regarding the non-standard configuration of the capacitors. There is mention of using symmetry as a potential strategy, though some participants are unclear on how to apply this concept.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem setup. Hints have been provided, suggesting a method involving voltage analysis across the capacitors, but no consensus or clear direction has been established yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are grappling with the implications of the circuit's configuration, which is explicitly stated to be neither a simple series nor parallel arrangement. This complexity is influencing their attempts to formulate a solution.

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Homework Statement


Calculate the equivalent capacitance between points a and b in the figure below (C1 = 4.10 μC and C2 = 1.60 μC). Notice that this system is not a simple series or parallel combination.

cw27A8Q.gif


Homework Equations


Series:
CT = [1/c1 + 1/c2...]-1

Parallel:
CT = C1 + C2...

The Attempt at a Solution


I don't know where to tackle this problem...
 
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need_aca_help said:

Homework Statement


Calculate the equivalent capacitance between points a and b in the figure below (C1 = 4.10 μC and C2 = 1.60 μC). Notice that this system is not a simple series or parallel combination.

cw27A8Q.gif


Homework Equations


Series:
CT = [1/c1 + 1/c2...]-1

Parallel:
CT = C1 + C2...

The Attempt at a Solution


I don't know where to tackle this problem...
As the problem states, this is not a combination of series and parallel pieces..

Use symmetry.
 
SammyS said:
As the problem states, this is not a combination of series and parallel pieces..

Use symmetry.

Symmetry...? Not sure how to do that...
 
OK, hint: take out the 8 uF capacitor, apply any voltage to a and b, what is the voltage between the two C1's and what is the voltage between the two C2's?
 

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