Two copper metal plates separated and charged

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a physics problem involving two charged metal plates with a capacitance configuration and a connecting copper wire. The plates, each with a diameter of 10 cm and separated by 1.0 cm, are charged to +/-12.5 nC. Key calculations involve determining the maximum current in the wire, the largest electric field present, and the total energy dissipated during the short circuit. The approach involves using capacitance equations and understanding the dynamics of an RC circuit formed by the wire and capacitor.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of capacitance and electric fields
  • Familiarity with RC circuit theory
  • Knowledge of current and resistance in conductive materials
  • Basic principles of energy dissipation in electrical circuits
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the capacitance of the plates using the formula for parallel plate capacitors
  • Learn about the relationship between voltage, current, and resistance in RC circuits
  • Explore the concept of energy stored in capacitors and how it translates to energy dissipation
  • Investigate the properties of copper wire, including resistance per unit length
USEFUL FOR

Students studying electromagnetism, electrical engineering enthusiasts, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of circuits involving capacitors and conductive materials.

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Homework Statement



Two 10-cm-diameter metal plates are 1.0 cm apart. They are charged to +/-12.5 nC. They are suddenly connected together by a 0.224-mm-diameter copper wire stretched taut from the center of one plate to the center of the other.

A)What is the maximum current in the wire?
B)What is the largest electric field in the wire?
c)What is the total amount of energy dissipated in the wire?

Homework Equations



really have no clue on this one, i think maybe i have to combine a capacitance equation, with something, or use that somehow to find the current.

i do know that energy=.5C(Vc^2), but i can't see how to translate this to energy that goes into the wire.

The Attempt at a Solution



any advice on how to attempt this would be great
 
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