Voltage and Current for 0.2-F Capacitor

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the expression for the current i(t) through a 0.2-F capacitor given the voltage equation v(t) = 4(1 - e^(-10t)) for t > 0. The current is calculated using the formula i(t) = C (dv(t))/dt, where C is the capacitance. Participants clarify that the symbol Є is actually the mathematical constant e (approximately 2.718), essential for understanding the exponential function in the context of capacitor behavior. The voltage equation indicates a charging capacitor, which influences the expected current behavior over time.

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Homework Statement


Voltage across 0.2-F cap is given by

v(t)=4(1-Є^(-10t)) for t>0


determine expression for the current i(t)

Homework Equations



i(t)=c (dv(t))/dt

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm really not sure were to begin with this problem what is the Є symbol and how do you take the derivative of it?
 
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pmontone, you're in luck. That's not a Є symbol, but rather the constant e (= 2.718), the basis for the exponential function.
 
pmontone said:

Homework Statement


Voltage across 0.2-F cap is given by

v(t)=4(1-Є^(-10t)) for t>0


determine expression for the current i(t)

Homework Equations



i(t)=c (dv(t))/dt

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm really not sure were to begin with this problem what is the Є symbol and how do you take the derivative of it?

First, look at your given equation v(t) and try to understand its meaning. What happens to v(t) as t increases? Is this equation representative of a "charging" or "discharging" capacitor? Now, based on this answer, how do you expect the current across the capacitor to behave over time? Use your equation and then analyze the result for physical accuracy. Remember that a fully-charged capacitor acts as an open circuit (no current).
 

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