Solving Energy Problems: Understanding Capacitors and Voltage

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In summary, capacitors are electronic components that store energy in an electric field. They are commonly used in electronic devices to provide short bursts of power and in power factor correction to improve efficiency. The voltage across a capacitor is directly proportional to the amount of charge stored on it, and can be calculated using the formula V = Q/C. Some common problems when working with capacitors include dielectric breakdown, leakage current, and limited lifetimes.
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xpack
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[PLAIN]http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/7861/81651488.png[/b]



Homework Equations


Q = CV
E = Q2/(2C)
E = 1/2*C*V2


I thought since they were parallel the voltage across each was the same so E = 1/2*36*106*302 but that gives me .0162 and that's not an option, .0016 is
 
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xpack said:
I thought since they were parallel the voltage across each was the same
They are not all in parallel. Hint: Redraw the circuit to identify the parallel/series combinations.
 

FAQ: Solving Energy Problems: Understanding Capacitors and Voltage

What are capacitors and how do they work?

Capacitors are electronic components that store electrical energy in an electric field. They consist of two conductive plates separated by an insulating material, also known as a dielectric. When a voltage is applied to the capacitor, one plate becomes positively charged and the other becomes negatively charged, creating an electric field between them. This electric field stores energy, which can be discharged when the capacitor is connected to a circuit.

How are capacitors used in solving energy problems?

Capacitors are commonly used in solving energy problems because they can store and release energy quickly. They are often used in electronic devices to provide short bursts of power, such as in camera flashes or defibrillators. Capacitors are also used in power factor correction, where they are used to improve the efficiency of electrical systems.

What is the relationship between capacitors and voltage?

The voltage across a capacitor is directly proportional to the amount of charge stored on it. This means that as the voltage increases, the amount of charge stored in the capacitor also increases. Additionally, the capacitance of a capacitor also affects the voltage, as a higher capacitance will result in a lower voltage for the same amount of charge.

How do you calculate the voltage of a capacitor?

The voltage of a capacitor can be calculated using the formula V = Q/C, where V is the voltage in volts, Q is the charge in coulombs, and C is the capacitance in farads. This formula can also be rearranged to solve for the charge or capacitance, depending on the given variables.

What are some common problems encountered when working with capacitors and voltage?

One common problem encountered when working with capacitors and voltage is dielectric breakdown. This occurs when the insulating material between the plates of a capacitor breaks down, allowing a large amount of current to flow through the capacitor, potentially damaging it. Another problem is leakage current, where a small amount of current leaks through the dielectric, reducing the amount of charge stored in the capacitor. Capacitors also have limited lifetimes and can fail over time, leading to a decrease in their effectiveness.

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