PhysicsChapter 5: Electric Potential and Capacitor
Capacitors in Series
Capacitors are in series
Definition
Capacitors are in series when they are connected end-to-end so that the same charge magnitude appears on each capacitor in the ideal series chain.
Two Capacitors
For series capacitors: Q₁=Q₂=...=Q Total voltage: V=V₁+V₂+... Using: Vᵢ=QCᵢ we get: V=Q(1C₁+1C₂+...) Since: V=QCeq therefore: 1Ceq = 1C₁ + 1C₂ + ... **Ceq = C₁C₂/(C₁+C₂)**
Important Result
Series equivalent capacitance is **smaller than the smallest individual capacitance**.
Voltage Division
Since: **Vᵢ=QCᵢ** the smaller capacitance has the larger voltage across it in a series chain carrying equal charge.
Formula / Key Relation
**1Ceq=Σ1Cᵢ For two: Ceq=C₁C₂/(C₁+C₂)**
Exam preparation
Exam Focus
Quick revision
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Review the key facts, formulas and checks before you move on.Capacitors in Series
Sticky Notes · Quick Revision
SERIES
- Same Q
- `V=V₁+V₂+...`
- `1/Ceq=1C₁+1C₂+...`
60-second revision
- Series equivalent capacitance is less than any individual capacitance.
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