Capacitors in Series calculations

In this post we will be looking at Capacitors in series calculations. Capacitors in series are connected end to end so that the same charge (Q) appears across each of them. Meanwhile, in this connection, different potential difference (Pd) appears across each of the capacitors. The sum of voltage drops across each of the capacitor is equal to the potential difference (Pd) applied to the whole circuit.

The figure below shows three capacitors in series. Each has charge of the same magnitude  on its plates, in agreement with principles of conservation of charge.

Capacitors in series formula

Hence the potential differences across the capacitors are respectively

potential difference across each capacitor

And so, if  C is the equivalent capacitance of the set, we have;

caps in series formulae

For any number of capacitors in series,

The reciprocal of the equivalent capacitance of a series arrangement of capacitors is equal to the sum of the reciprocals of the individual capacitors in general. Evidently C is smaller than the capacitance of any of the individual capacitors.

Capacitors in Series Calculations
Example

Two capacitors, one of 10µF and the other 30µF are connected in series across the terminals of a 12V battery.

  1. Find the equivalent capacitance of the combination
  2. The potential difference across each capacitor,
  3. Charge on each of its plats, and
  4. The energy stored in it.
Solutions

Capacitors in series calculation

The equivalent capacitance of the two capacitors is

equivalent capacitance

The charge on each of its plates is Q1=Q2 because the same charge (Q) will be present on all the plates of the capacitors. This is true for all capacitors in series connection.

charges on plates

The potential difference across each capacitor

potential difference across

Note that the sum of V1 and V2 must be equal to the potential difference (V) applied to the circuit (V = V1 +V2).

Energy stored in a capacitor is given by

W=1/2QV

Where “ ” is the energy stored in Joules (J), “Q” is the charge in Coulomb (C), and “V” is the potential difference in Volts (V)

            ∴ Energy stored in the capacitors are respectively




energy stored in the capacitors

See also Parallel Capacitors Calculations

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