Why is the RC circuit homework statement giving different results than expected?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around discrepancies in calculated results for an RC circuit homework problem. At time t=0, the capacitor acts as a short circuit, affecting the current and voltage calculations. Participants note that their calculations yield a current of 6 amps, while the expected answer is 7 amps. There is confusion regarding the role of a 1Ω shorting wire and whether it is removed before the switch is closed. The consensus suggests that the problem's wording may be misleading, potentially leading to incorrect answers in the textbook.
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Homework Statement


attachment.php?attachmentid=33576&stc=1&d=1301168110.jpg


The Attempt at a Solution



As at t=0 the capacitor behaves as a wire ... so the circuit at t=0 will be like:

attachment.php?attachmentid=33577&stc=1&d=1301168676.png


q at any time for this circuit will be,

q \ = \ CE(1-e^{-t/\tau}) + Q_oe^{-t/\tau}

differentiating it will give current,

i \ = \ \frac{Ee^{-t/\tau}}{R} \ - \ \frac{Q_oe^{-t/\tau}}{\tau}

putting values give 6

but answer is 7
 

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Is the 1Ω shorting wire temporary? -- that is to say: is it removed before the switch is closed?
 
No ... but the question asks use for t=0 ... i.e. when capacitor behaves as a wire ... so it will short circuit the resistor ... :)
 
SOme help please ??
 
Yup, at t=0, capacitor A has zero potential across it.

At time t=0, what's the potential across capacitor B ?
 
Sorry for the delay. The problem is written in an unfamiliar way (at least for me).

I also came up with 6 amps @ t=0.
 
so that means that the answer in book is wrong?
 
I think it must be wrong.
 
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