How to Find Charge Stored on Capacitors in Series?

In summary, the total charge of capacitors in series can be calculated by adding the individual charges of each capacitor, as given by the formula Q = Q1 + Q2 + Q3 + ... + Qn. In a series circuit, the charge is the same on each capacitor because they are connected in a single path. The total capacitance of capacitors in series is always less than the capacitance of the individual capacitors, as the equivalent capacitance is given by 1/Ceq = 1/C1 + 1/C2 + 1/C3 + ... + 1/Cn. Yes, capacitors in series can be replaced by a single equivalent capacitor using this formula, which is useful in simplifying complex circuits
  • #1
mli273
13
0
1. Two capacitors, one 7.2 [tex]\mu[/tex]F the other 16 [tex]\mu[/tex]F, are connected in series across a 15 V battery.

Find the charge stored on 7.2 [tex]\mu[/tex]F capacitor.
Find the charge stored on 16 [tex]\mu[/tex]F capacitor.


2. C-eq =5.0[tex]\mu[/tex]F and V=Q/C and [tex]\epsilon[/tex]=Q(1/C-eq)


3. I know that both Q values should be the same because the capacitors are in series, but I'm not sure how to go about using the formulas I have. I've tried averages of the two charges, and that didn't work. What am I missing? Thanks in advance!
 
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  • #2
Nevermind, figured it out on my own.
 

FAQ: How to Find Charge Stored on Capacitors in Series?

What is the formula for calculating the total charge of capacitors in series?

The total charge of capacitors in series can be calculated by adding the individual charges of each capacitor. The formula is Q = Q1 + Q2 + Q3 + ... + Qn, where Q is the total charge and Q1, Q2, Q3, etc. are the individual charges of each capacitor.

How does the charge distribute among capacitors in series?

In a series circuit, the charge is the same on each capacitor. This is because the capacitors are connected in a single path, so the same amount of charge flows through each capacitor.

What happens to the total capacitance when capacitors are connected in series?

The total capacitance of capacitors in series is always less than the capacitance of the individual capacitors. This is because the equivalent capacitance of capacitors in series is given by the formula 1/Ceq = 1/C1 + 1/C2 + 1/C3 + ... + 1/Cn, where Ceq is the equivalent capacitance and C1, C2, C3, etc. are the individual capacitances. As the number of capacitors in series increases, the equivalent capacitance decreases.

Can capacitors in series be replaced by a single equivalent capacitor?

Yes, capacitors in series can be replaced by a single equivalent capacitor. The equivalent capacitance is calculated using the formula mentioned in the previous answer. This is useful in simplifying complex circuits for analysis.

What are some real-life applications of capacitors in series?

Capacitors in series are commonly used in electronic circuits to store energy and regulate voltage. They are also used in power factor correction, where multiple capacitors are connected in series to correct the power factor of the circuit. Additionally, capacitors in series are used in electronic filters to block certain frequencies of signals.

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