A 15-μF capacitor and a 25-μF capacitor are connected in parallel, and charged to a potential difference of 60 V. How much energy is then stored in this capacitor combination?
A) 50 mJ
B) 18 mJ
C) 32 mJ
D) 72 mJ
E) 45 mJ

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The total capacitance in parallel is:

C_total = C_1 + C_2 = 15 μF + 25 μF = 40 μF

The total energy stored in the capacitors is:

U = (1/2) * C_total * V^2

where V is the potential difference. Substituting the given values, we get:

U = (1/2) * 40 μF * (60 V)^2 = 72 mJ

Therefore, the answer is D) 72 mJ.

A 15-μF Capacitor and a 25-μF Capacitor Are Connected in Parallel