Difference between revisions of "Capacitance"
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*[[Capacitor]]s in [[Series Circuit|series]] have a reduced total [[capacitance]], while those in [[Parallel Circuit|parallel]] have an increased total [[capacitance]]. | *[[Capacitor]]s in [[Series Circuit|series]] have a reduced total [[capacitance]], while those in [[Parallel Circuit|parallel]] have an increased total [[capacitance]]. | ||
*[[Capacitance]] is a [[measure]] of a [[capacitor]]'s ability to store [[Electrical Charge|charge]]. | *[[Capacitance]] is a [[measure]] of a [[capacitor]]'s ability to store [[Electrical Charge|charge]]. | ||
| − | *In [[Direct Current|DC]] [[Electrical | + | *In [[Direct Current|DC]] [[Electrical Circuit|circuits]], a [[capacitor]] charges and discharges, storing and releasing [[Energy|energy]]. |
*In [[Alternating Current|AC]] [[Electrical Circuit|circuits]], [[capacitor]]s block direct [[Electrical Current|current]] and allow [[Alternating Current|alternating current]] to pass, acting as a reactive component. | *In [[Alternating Current|AC]] [[Electrical Circuit|circuits]], [[capacitor]]s block direct [[Electrical Current|current]] and allow [[Alternating Current|alternating current]] to pass, acting as a reactive component. | ||
Latest revision as of 14:48, 22 May 2024
Key Stage 5
Meaning
Capacitance is the ability of a system to store an electric charge per unit of potential difference (pd), measured in farads (F).
About Capacitance
- The unit of capacitance is the farad (F), which is equal to one coulomb per volt.
- Factors affecting capacitance include the area of the plates, the distance between them, and the dielectric material between the plates.
- Capacitors in series have a reduced total capacitance, while those in parallel have an increased total capacitance.
- Capacitance is a measure of a capacitor's ability to store charge.
- In DC circuits, a capacitor charges and discharges, storing and releasing energy.
- In AC circuits, capacitors block direct current and allow alternating current to pass, acting as a reactive component.
Formula
The capacitance 𝐶 of a capacitor is given by:
𝐶=𝑄𝑉
Where:
𝐶 is the capacitance of the capacitor
𝑄 is the charge stored in the capacitor
and
𝑉 is the potential difference across the capacitor.
Examples
- A parallel-plate capacitor consists of two conductive plates separated by an insulating material.
- Used in electronic circuits to store energy, filter signals, and in timing applications.