Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Capacitors and capacitance
Capacitors and capacitance — practice question
Two capacitors P and Q, each with capacitance $C$, are arranged in series with a battery of e.m.f. $9.0\,\text{V}$, as illustrated in Fig. 6.1. Switch S allows either a third capacitor T, also having capacitance $C$, or a resistor R, to be connected in parallel with capacitor P.
(a(i))[2]
For switch S in position X, calculate the combined capacitance of the three capacitors, in terms of $C$.
(a(ii))[2]
Calculate the potential difference across capacitor Q. Show your working.
(b)[4]
Switch S is now moved to position Y. State what happens to the potential difference across capacitor P and across capacitor Q.
Worked solution & mark scheme
This 8-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: “Using the series relation, $1/T = 1/(2C) + 1/C$.” …