Find the maximum potential difference that can be applied to a capacitor

In summary, to determine the capacitance and maximum potential difference for a Teflon-filled parallel-plate capacitor with a plate area of 1.75 cm^2 and plate separation of .04 mm, we can use the equation C=k(epsilon-not)(A/d) and Vmax=E*d, where k is the dielectric constant (in this case, 2.1) and epsilon-not is the permittivity of free space (8.85e-12). Solving for C, we get a capacitance of 8.13e-9 F. To find Vmax, we need to know the electric field (E) between the plates, which can be calculated using the equation E=Vmax/d
  • #1
staticd
60
0

Homework Statement


Determine a) the capacitance and b) the maximum potential difference that can be applied to a Teflon-filled parallel-plate capacitor having a plate area of 1.75 cm^2 and plate separation of .04 mm.

Homework Equations



A=.0175
d=.04e-3
k=2.1
C=k(epsilon-not)(A/d)
Vmax=E*d
Qmax=C*(delta)Vmax=C(Emax*d)

The Attempt at a Solution



C=2.1*8.85e-12*(.0175/.04e-3)=8.13e-9 F

If Vmax=E*d, how do I solve for E to find Vmax?

Not really sure where to go with this...
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Don't you need to know the dielectric strength of Teflon?
 
  • #3
Donaldos said:
Don't you need to know the dielectric strength of Teflon?

That would be "k"-->k=2.1

I guess I need to know how to determine what the electric field is in between the plates, as a function of the dialectric.
 
  • #4
Donaldos said:
Don't you need to know the dielectric strength of Teflon?

staticd said:
That would be "k"-->k=2.1
k is the dielectric constant. Dielectric strength is the maximum electric field that a material can withstand.

Chances are you were provided with dielectric strength values -- probably in your textbook. Check the relevant section, or try looking in the book's index.
 

Related to Find the maximum potential difference that can be applied to a capacitor

1. How do you calculate the maximum potential difference for a capacitor?

The maximum potential difference for a capacitor can be calculated using the formula V = Q/C, where V is the potential difference, Q is the charge stored on the capacitor, and C is the capacitance. Alternatively, it can also be calculated using the formula V = Ed, where E is the electric field strength and d is the distance between the plates of the capacitor.

2. What factors affect the maximum potential difference for a capacitor?

The maximum potential difference for a capacitor is affected by several factors, including the distance between the plates, the dielectric material between the plates, and the surface area of the plates. It is also affected by the material of the plates, as different materials have different capacitances.

3. Is there a limit to the maximum potential difference that can be applied to a capacitor?

Yes, there is a limit to the maximum potential difference that can be applied to a capacitor. This limit is determined by the breakdown voltage of the dielectric material between the plates. If the potential difference exceeds this limit, the dielectric material will break down and the capacitor will be damaged.

4. How can the maximum potential difference of a capacitor be increased?

The maximum potential difference of a capacitor can be increased by increasing the distance between the plates, using a dielectric material with a higher breakdown voltage, or increasing the surface area of the plates. Additionally, connecting capacitors in series can also increase the overall maximum potential difference.

5. Why is it important to know the maximum potential difference for a capacitor?

Knowing the maximum potential difference for a capacitor is important for designing and using electronic circuits. It ensures that the capacitor is not damaged by exceeding its limit and also helps in choosing the appropriate capacitor for a specific application. It is also important for calculating the energy stored in the capacitor, which is useful in various electrical calculations.

Similar threads

Calculations involving different Dielectrics and Capacitors
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
797
Two different dielectrics between parallel-plate capacitor
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
390
Polarities of capacitor plates in a complex circuit
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
14
Views
881
Charge on a grounded conducting sphere in a uniform electric field, after ungrounding and movement
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
214
A disconnected capacitor with two dielectrics in parallel
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
1K
Why can we model spherical capacitor with two dielectrics as two capacitors in series?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
429
Potential difference between 2 points in a capacitor circuit
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
30
Views
1K
Find the maximum potential difference across a series circuit
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
3K
Comparing energy lost by the battery & energy gained by the capacitor.
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
953
Final potential difference of a 2 capacitor system
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top