Ceq of 3 capacitors in a triangle

[pyroknife]

I'm a little confused about this problem. I attached the pic. The solution manual states " capacitors C1 and C3 are in
series with each other and in parallel with capacitor C2."

I don't understand why it has to be C1 and C3 in series which is parallel with C2.

Can't it also be C2&C3 in series and parallel with C1

 

[SammyS]

Which two of the vertices, a, b, c, are assumed to be the terminals?

Please state the whole problem as it was given to you.

 

[pyroknife]

Oh they said "find an expression for the equivalent capacitance between points a and c in terms of the 3 capacitance values." But they didn't say they were the terminals tho, unless that statement implies it.

 

[phinds]

Oh they said "find an expression for the equivalent capacitance between points a and c in terms of the 3 capacitance values." But they didn't say they were the terminals tho, unless that statement implies it.

Yes, the statement implies it.

 

[asteriatic]

?

I would like to clarify that the placement of capacitors in a circuit depends on the specific circuit configuration and the desired results. In this case, the solution manual is correct in stating that C1 and C3 are in series and parallel with C2. This is because in a triangle configuration, the two sides (C1 and C3) are connected to the third side (C2) in a parallel arrangement. This means that the voltage across C1 and C3 is the same, and the current through C2 is equal to the sum of the currents through C1 and C3. This simplifies the overall circuit and makes it easier to calculate the equivalent capacitance (Ceq).

However, it is also possible to arrange the capacitors in a different way, such as C2 and C3 in series and parallel with C1. This would result in a different equivalent capacitance value and may be suitable for a different circuit design. As a scientist, it is important to consider all possible arrangements and choose the one that best fits the specific circuit and desired results.