What is an example of a capacitator practice problem?

1 Answer
Aug 6, 2017

See below.

Explanation:

Here is a fairly typical example I grabbed from an old discussion problems packet from a general physics class (collegiate-level, General Physics II)

Two capacitors, one with C_1=6.0muF and the other with C_2=3.0muF, are connected to a potential difference of 18V

a) Find the equivalent capacitances when they are connected in series and in parallel

answer: 2.0muF in series and 9.0muF in parallel

b) Find the charge and potential difference for each capacitor when they are connected in series

answer: Q_1=36muC, Q_2=36muC, V_1=6V, and V_2=12V

c) Find the charge and potential difference for each capacitor when they are connected in parallel

answer: Q_1=108muC, Q_2=54muC, V_1=18V, and V_2=18V*

Capacitor problems can easily become more complicated.