Voltage and energy in capacator system

[barryj]

Homework Statement

There are two capacitors, 1 farad each, connected by a switch. The initial voltage of one capacitor is 1 volt. At t0, the switch is closed.

What is the system energy before closing the switch
What is the system energy, of both capacitors after closing the switch.
What is the difference in stored energy and why.

Homework Equations

V = Q/C

E = (1/2)CV^2

The Attempt at a Solution

initial energy = (1/2) (1) (1)^2 = 1/2 J
Q = CV = (1)(1) = 1 c

After switch closes, the charge is distributed over both capacitors, so each capacitor has a charge of 1/2 c
voltage is Q/C = 1/2 / 1 = 1/2 V
Energy in each cap is (1/2) (1) (1/2)^2 = 1/8
Total stored energy is 1/2 + 1/8 = 1/4

I lost 1/4 J of energy ??

 

[gneill]

I lost 1/4 J of energy ??

Yes, yes you did.

 

[barryj]

So, where did it go?

 

[gneill]

So, where did it go?

Can you think of any plausible mechanisms for removing/dissipating the energy?

 

[barryj]

Heat, electromagnetic radiation, ?

 

[gneill]

Heat, electromagnetic radiation, ?

Yes, good.