What is the least resistance in this RC circuit?

In summary, the lower the resistance in an RC circuit, the lower the charge/discharge time for the capacitor. However, there is a limit to how small the resistance can be, as having a very low resistance would make the circuit behave more like just a capacitor. In order to accurately determine the lowest resistance allowed, the source resistance must also be taken into consideration. This is especially important when there is a switched-on voltage source with an output resistance, a resistor in series, and a capacitor with an equivalent series resistance.
  • #1
laclry311
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TL;DR Summary
least resistance in RC circuit
Hello, I know that the lower the resistance the lower the charge/discharge time in an RC circuit, i.e. 5RC is about the charge/discharge time for the capacitor. But how small is the resitstance allowed to be? I'm guessing that the lower the resistance the more the circuit looks like it has just a capacitor (bad,yes?). Is there a specifice value of what the lowest resistance could be?
 
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  • #2
To answer the question well, you need to consider the source resistance as well.

Is your question about a switched-on voltage source with an output resistance Rs, in series with an explicit resistor R1 and a capacitor C1 that has and equivalent series resistance of ESR1?
 

1. What is the definition of resistance in an RC circuit?

Resistance in an RC circuit is the measure of how difficult it is for electric current to flow through the circuit. It is measured in ohms (Ω) and is influenced by the type of material, length, and cross-sectional area of the circuit's components.

2. How is resistance calculated in an RC circuit?

The total resistance in an RC circuit can be calculated by adding the individual resistances of each component in the circuit. For example, in a series circuit, the total resistance is equal to the sum of the resistances of each component. In a parallel circuit, the total resistance is calculated using the formula 1/Rt = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + ... + 1/Rn.

3. What is the least resistance in an RC circuit?

The least resistance in an RC circuit is the path of least resistance, which is the path that offers the least amount of opposition to the flow of electric current. This path is determined by the components in the circuit and their individual resistances.

4. How does resistance affect the behavior of an RC circuit?

The amount of resistance in an RC circuit affects the flow of electric current and the behavior of the circuit. Higher resistance will result in a slower flow of current, while lower resistance will allow for a higher flow of current. Resistance also affects the voltage and current relationship in a circuit, according to Ohm's Law (V=IR).

5. What factors can influence the resistance in an RC circuit?

The resistance in an RC circuit can be influenced by various factors such as the type of material used for the components, the length and cross-sectional area of the circuit, and the temperature. The type of material and its properties, such as conductivity, play a significant role in determining the resistance of a circuit.

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