Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Capacitors and capacitance

Capacitors and capacitance — practice question

Two parallel plate capacitors $C_1$ and $C_2$ are linked to a supply with potential difference (p.d.) $V_S$. They may be arranged either in series or in parallel. The supply delivers charge $Q_S$, and the plates of the two capacitors end up with charges $Q_1$ and $Q_2$ respectively. The p.d.s across the capacitor plates are $V_1$ and $V_2$ respectively.
(a)[4]

Fill in Table 6.1 so that it shows the relationships between $Q_S$, $Q_1$ and $Q_2$, and between $V_S$, $V_1$ and $V_2$, for the capacitors connected to the supply in series and in parallel.

(b(i))[2]

An isolated capacitor with capacitance $470\,\mu\text{F}$ stores $19\,\text{mJ}$ of energy. Calculate the potential difference across the capacitor.

(b(ii))[2]

Calculate the charge stored on the capacitor.

(b(iii))[3]

The capacitor is now joined in parallel with another capacitor of capacitance $180\,\mu\text{F}$ that starts off uncharged. Determine the total energy, in mJ, now stored in the two capacitors.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 11-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: series charges relation: $Q_s=Q_1=Q_2$

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