What Is the Equivalent Capacitance of Capacitors in Series and Parallel?

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SUMMARY

The equivalent capacitance of capacitors connected in series and parallel can be calculated using specific formulas. For the given capacitors C1 = 3C, C2 = C, and C3 = 5C, first, combine C2 and C3 in parallel using the formula Ctot = C2 + C3, resulting in Ctot = C + 5C = 6C. Then, this equivalent capacitance is in series with C1, leading to the final calculation of the total capacitance using the series formula 1/Ctot = 1/C1 + 1/Cparallel, yielding an equivalent capacitance of 1/(1/(3C) + 1/(6C)) = 2C/3.

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Quick capacitor question

Homework Statement


Three capacitors are connected to a battery as shown in the figure below. Their capacitances are C1 = 3C, C2 = C, and C3 = 5C
p20-44.gif

What is the equivalent capacitance of this set of capacitors (in terms of C)?

Homework Equations


In parallel, Ctot=C1+C2+...+Cn
In series, 1/Ctot=1/C1+1/C2+...+1/Cn


The Attempt at a Solution


my book never says how to add capacitors that are both in series and parallel, so i have no idea. i know the formulas above, but idk how to combine them...
 
Last edited:
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Do it in two parts.Use your first equation above -this gives you the single capacitor that can replace C2 and C3 and now you are left with this single capacitor in series with C1
 

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