Capacitor Lab (Capacitor as source)

In summary, the conversation discusses a homework problem involving a capacitor circuit and the need to calculate the charges and voltages as switches are opened and closed. The relevant equations are provided and the attempt at a solution involves using the equation Q=VC. A question is raised about whether charge is conserved and the possibility of V1f = V2f is considered. The person speaking suggests that the question may be better suited for the Introductory Physics help forum.
  • #1
mtbhrd
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Homework Statement



http://img141.imageshack.us/img141/6173/capcircuitji2.jpg

Basicly, I have to get charges and voltages as these switches are opened and closed on this capacitor circuit.

First, Switch A closed, B open. (C1 is charged.)

Then, switch A opens, and B closes.

Vi=5v
C1=4.6x10^-6F
C2=2.3x10^-6F

Homework Equations



Q = VC

The Attempt at a Solution



Okay, so the first part is easy. Charge on the the first capacitor Q = VC, V=5v, Q1i= 2.3X10^-5 C

Now, the second part. Is charge conserved? So that
Q1i=Q1f+Q2f

Expanding that with Q=VC,
C1V1i = C1V1f + C2V2f

Can we say that V1f = V2f? So Vf would be 3.35v? Then charges could be found on each capacitor... Is this the correct way to go about this?
 
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  • #2
Maybe this should be moved to the Introductory Physics help forum?
 

FAQ: Capacitor Lab (Capacitor as source)

What is a capacitor?

A capacitor is an electronic component that stores electrical energy in an electric field. It consists of two conductive plates separated by an insulating material known as a dielectric.

How does a capacitor work as a source of energy?

When a capacitor is connected to a power source, it charges by accumulating electrons on one plate and removing them from the other. This creates an electric potential difference between the plates, allowing the capacitor to act as a source of energy.

What is the difference between a capacitor and a battery?

A capacitor and a battery both store electrical energy, but they do so in different ways. A battery relies on chemical reactions to store energy, while a capacitor stores energy in an electric field. Batteries can provide a steady flow of energy, while capacitors can release a large amount of energy quickly.

How do you measure the capacitance of a capacitor?

The capacitance of a capacitor can be measured using a multimeter or a capacitance meter. The process involves connecting the capacitor to the meter and recording the measurement in farads (F).

What are some common uses of capacitors?

Capacitors have many applications in electronic circuits, such as smoothing out fluctuations in power supply, filtering out unwanted signals, and storing data in computer memory. They are also used in timing circuits, audio equipment, and power factor correction in electrical systems.

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