What happens to charge stored in a capacitor when moving the plates?

In summary, the conversation discusses the effect of moving the plates of a charged capacitor while keeping the distance between them constant. It is mentioned that only the overlapping area affects capacitance. The question is raised about whether the charge stored in the capacitor will change, to which the response is that the capacitance does change. It is then clarified that the capacitor is not connected to a voltage source, leading to a conclusion that while the net charge on the plates remains the same, the potential difference changes.
  • #1
AdityaDev
527
33
Let us take a charged capacitor and move the plates such that it the distance between them be constant. For example, one moves towards left and other moves upwards.
Assuming only overlapping area affects capacitance... WILL THE CHARGE STORED IN CAPACITOR CHANGE?
I know the capacitance changes.
 
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  • #2
Is the capacitor still connected to a voltage source or not connected to anything?

U = QC is valid in both cases, but in the first case U is constant and in the second case Q.
 
  • #3
The capacitor is not connected to anything... hence the net charge in the capacitor plates should be same. But potential difference changes.
 

Related to What happens to charge stored in a capacitor when moving the plates?

1. How does moving the capacitor plates affect the capacitance?

Moving the capacitor plates closer together increases the capacitance, while moving them farther apart decreases the capacitance. This is because the distance between the plates directly affects the electric field and therefore the amount of charge that can be stored.

2. Can moving the capacitor plates generate an electric current?

Yes, moving the capacitor plates can generate an electric current through the process of charging and discharging. When the plates are moved, the electric field changes, causing electrons to move from one plate to the other, creating a flow of current.

3. Is there a limit to how far the capacitor plates can be moved?

Yes, there is a limit to how far the capacitor plates can be moved. If the plates are moved too far apart, the electric field may weaken to the point where the capacitor no longer functions effectively. Additionally, if the plates are moved too close together, they may touch and cause a short circuit.

4. How does changing the shape of the capacitor plates affect their movement?

Changing the shape of the capacitor plates does not affect their movement, as long as the distance between the plates remains constant. However, changing the shape may affect the overall capacitance of the capacitor due to changes in the electric field.

5. Can the movement of capacitor plates be used to store and release energy?

Yes, the movement of capacitor plates can be used to store and release energy. By charging the capacitor through the movement of plates, energy is stored in the electric field between the plates. This energy can be released when the plates are moved back to their original position, discharging the capacitor and releasing the stored energy.

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