Capacitance, Potential difference

In summary: Va-Vb between points a and b.In summary, for the given circuit, the potential difference Va-Vb between points a and b can be found by using KVL to calculate the voltage across each capacitor and assuming point a as ground with 0V. Each capacitor's left plate will have a positive charge and its right plate will have a negative charge. Initially, the net charge in the part of the circuit right of the capacitors is zero.
  • #1
lavankohsa
32
0

Homework Statement


Find the potential difference Va-Vb between points a and b.

capacitance.jpg


Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



Each capacitors left plate will have difference amount of positive charge and right plate will have negative charge. After that i don't know how to proceed.
 
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  • #2
lavankohsa said:

Homework Statement


Find the potential difference Va-Vb between points a and b.

capacitance.jpg


Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



Each capacitors left plate will have difference amount of positive charge and right plate will have negative charge. After that i don't know how to proceed.
If the capacitors are uncharged prior to being placed in the circuit, then the net charge in the part of the circuit right of the capacitors is zero initially.

I don't see how all of the right plates for all of the capacitors can be negative.
 
Last edited:
  • #3
lavankohsa said:

Homework Statement


Find the potential difference Va-Vb between points a and b.

capacitance.jpg


Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



Each capacitors left plate will have difference amount of positive charge and right plate will have negative charge. After that i don't know how to proceed.
If you are familiar with KVL, you can use it for the 3 loops to get the voltage across each capacitor.. Just find the potential of point b, assuming a as ground(0V).
 
  • #4
Use KVL
 

Related to Capacitance, Potential difference

1. What is capacitance?

Capacitance is the ability of a system to store an electrical charge. It is measured in Farads (F) and is dependent on the geometry and material of the system.

2. How is capacitance related to potential difference?

The potential difference, or voltage, between two points is directly proportional to the amount of charge stored in a system with a given capacitance. This relationship is described by the equation V = Q/C, where V is voltage, Q is charge, and C is capacitance.

3. What factors affect capacitance?

The capacitance of a system is affected by the distance between two conductors, the surface area of the conductors, and the material between them. It is also influenced by the dielectric constant, which is a measure of how well a material can store energy in an electric field.

4. How does capacitance impact the flow of current?

Capacitance can affect the flow of current in a system by storing and releasing energy. When a capacitor is charged, it resists the flow of current, but when it is discharged, it can release a large amount of energy in a short period of time, which can impact the flow of current in a circuit.

5. What are some real-life applications of capacitance?

Capacitance has many practical applications, such as in electronic devices like computers and smartphones, where it is used to store data and regulate power. It is also used in filters, amplifiers, and sensors, as well as in power transmission and distribution systems.

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