Measuring volatge across capacitor with a not ideal oscilloscope

In summary, the conversation discusses a circuit with a resistor and capacitor connected to an AC supply. The voltage across the capacitor is being measured with an oscilloscope, modeled as an ideal voltmeter in parallel with an internal resistance. The question is to find the voltage across the capacitor during charging, which can be solved using the KVL equation and potentially the Laplace transform if known. The final solution is V=Vo(r/(R+r))(1-e^(-(R+r)t/(RrC))).
  • #1
connor02
27
0

Homework Statement



A resistor (R) and a capacitor are connected in series to an AC supply. You are measuring the voltage across the capacitor with an oscilloscope. however, the oscilloscope is not ideal. you may model the oscilloscope as an ideal voltmeter in parallel with an internal resistance (r). What is the voltage across the capacitor during charging?

Homework Equations



I think the answer is V=Vo(r/(R+r))(1-e^(something))

but I don't know how to get here or what the e power is.


The Attempt at a Solution



I tried finding the impedence for the resistor and capacitor but that was wrong (apparently because of some phase difference).


Hope someone can help,
Connor

**EDIT**
I have just been given the answer and the something is -(R+r)t/(RrC)

so the answer is V=Vo(r/(R+r))(1-e^(-(R+r)t/(RrC)))

but I do not know how to arrive at it.

any help appreciated.

thanks.
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
Write the KVL equation (current into node v = current out of node v, where v = capacitor voltage). Have you had the Laplace transform? If not, this will be a differential equation & you have to know how to solve those (this is a simple first-order linear d.e. with constant coefficients).
 

Related to Measuring volatge across capacitor with a not ideal oscilloscope

1. What is the purpose of measuring voltage across a capacitor with a not ideal oscilloscope?

The purpose of measuring voltage across a capacitor with a not ideal oscilloscope is to understand the behavior of the capacitor and how it stores and releases electrical energy. This measurement can also help in troubleshooting circuits and identifying any issues with the capacitor.

2. How does a not ideal oscilloscope affect the accuracy of the voltage measurement?

A not ideal oscilloscope can introduce errors in the voltage measurement across a capacitor due to its limited bandwidth, noise, and non-linearity. This can result in a distorted waveform and inaccurate voltage readings.

3. What factors should be considered when using a not ideal oscilloscope to measure voltage across a capacitor?

Some factors to consider when using a not ideal oscilloscope to measure voltage across a capacitor include the oscilloscope's bandwidth, input impedance, and probe settings. It is also important to account for any noise or distortion in the measurement and compensate for it if possible.

4. Can a not ideal oscilloscope be used to accurately measure the voltage across a capacitor?

Yes, a not ideal oscilloscope can still be used to measure the voltage across a capacitor with reasonable accuracy. However, it is important to understand the limitations of the oscilloscope and compensate for any errors in the measurement.

5. Are there any precautions to take when using a not ideal oscilloscope to measure voltage across a capacitor?

Yes, it is important to properly calibrate the oscilloscope and ensure that the probe is connected correctly to minimize any errors. It is also recommended to use a high-quality probe with a low input capacitance to avoid any additional loading on the circuit.

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