Two capacitors with capacitances of 1.0 $\mu$F and 0.50 $\mu$F, respectively, are connected in series. The system is connected to a 50-V battery. What electrical potential energy is stored in the 1.0-$\mu$F capacitor?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When capacitors are connected in series, the charge on each capacitor is the same. The equivalent capacitance (C_eq) for capacitors in series is given by 1/C_eq = 1/C1 + 1/C2. For the given capacitors, C_eq = 0.333 μF. The voltage across the 1.0 μF capacitor can be found using the charge (Q = C_eq * V_battery) and the relation Q = C * V. The energy stored in a capacitor is given by U = 0.5 * C * V^2. Calculating this for the 1.0 μF capacitor gives approximately 1.4 x 10^-4 J.

Two Capacitors with Capacitances of 1 μ\muμ F and 050 μ\muμ F, Respectively, Are Connected in Series

Two Capacitors with Capacitances of 1 $\mu$ F and 050 $\mu$ F, Respectively, Are Connected in Series