Unraveling the Mystery of Current: Expressing F in Seconds and Ohms

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on expressing capacitance (F) in terms of seconds (T) and ohms (Ω) within the context of an RC circuit. The user initially misapplies the exponential function in their calculations, leading to an incorrect conclusion that F equals zero. Through clarification, it is established that the product of resistance (R) and capacitance (C) has dimensions of time, confirming that Ohm-Farad (Ω·F) indeed represents time (T). This understanding resolves the user's confusion regarding dimensional analysis in electrical circuits.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Ohm's Law and basic electrical circuit theory
  • Familiarity with the concepts of resistance (R) and capacitance (C)
  • Knowledge of differential equations as applied to electrical circuits
  • Basic proficiency in dimensional analysis and unit conversions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relationship between resistance, capacitance, and time in RC circuits
  • Learn about the application of differential equations in circuit analysis
  • Explore dimensional analysis techniques in physics and engineering
  • Investigate the implications of exponential functions in electrical engineering
USEFUL FOR

Electrical engineers, physics students, and anyone involved in circuit design or analysis will benefit from this discussion, particularly those looking to deepen their understanding of RC circuits and dimensional analysis.

nate92488
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I have this problem I just can't figure out.

Current = A (Ampere)

i(t)=z(e^t/(RC))

where z is the initial current at t=0, R is the resistance in Ohms and C is the capacitance expressed in secondary units as F (Farad)

- Express the units of F in terms of seconds and ohms

So, this is what I tried to do, tell me where I went wrong

A = A e^(s/F-Ohms)

1 = e^(s/F-Ohms)

ln(1) = s/F-Ohms

0 = s/F-Ohms

F = 0

I obviously did something wrong, so any help would be apreciated, thank you!
 
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If you think of an RC circuit as a second order differential equation you will see

dQ/dT + 1/(R*C)*Q = Junk

Where junk = 0 for a loop of a circuit without any external components. Otherwise it can also be some forcing function driven by batteries, power sources, etc. But anyways, Q is the charge here so...

dQ/dT = charge/time (amps)

thus Q*1/(R*C) = charge/time since Q = charge, R*C has dimension [T]

Thus an Ohm-Farad has dimension [T] and the quantity in the exponent in your equation is dimensionless then - as it should be
 
thank you, I got it now.
 

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