What is the charge on the capacitor?

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    Capacitor Charge
AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on determining the charge on a capacitor in a closed circuit and how it changes over time when the switch is opened. Participants emphasize the need to analyze the circuit configuration, suggesting the use of Thevenin's theorem for simplification. Key equations mentioned include the relationship between charge and time, specifically Q=Qe^(-t/RC), which is crucial for calculating the capacitor's discharge. There is also a request for clarification on the circuit diagram, as the lack of a clear visual representation hinders problem-solving. Overall, understanding the circuit's steady state and time constant is essential for finding the charge dynamics.
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Homework Statement



https://www.physicsforums.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=20071&stc=1&d=1250025514

The switch in the figure has been closed for a very long time.
https://www.physicsforums.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=20071&stc=1&d=1250025514

(a) What is the charge on the capacitor?

(b) The switch is opened at t = 0 s. At what time has the charge on the capacitor decreased to 10% of its initial value?

Homework Equations



E-iR1-iR2=0
emf (delta)Vi=0
Q=Qe^-t/RC (possibly)

The Attempt at a Solution


So, I know that the circuit is initially closed, and I don't need current to solve. Also that I probably need to combine resistors because they are in series. Yet, I'm a little confused as how to set up the problem.

Any type of help or insight would be deeply appreciated.
 
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You'll have to at least describe the circuit in words, if you can't post a graphic of it.
 


If we could see the picture it might help. If you can not load describe the circuit and value of the components. This would help a lot.
 


frederickcan said:
Does this link work?

The link does not work.
 


It looks something like this:____WWW______________
I...60 OHM...I...I
I......I...…
_ 100V....W...W
-....40 OHM W...W 10 OHM
I......I...…
I......I...… I_
I......I...… 2 micro F
I......I...…
I________________I_________I
 


Your picture is still not clear, I couldn't find where is the switch but general suggestions:
1) Convert your circuit to thevenian with capacitor at output (with one voltage source and one thevenian resistor)
2) 1/RC it T(time constant)
3) Use x(inf) - [x(inf) - x(0)] exp (-t/T) formula for finding voltage across capacitor as a function of t.
4) For steady state (when long time), make capacitor open and solve the circuit
 
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