(a) Derive an expression for the energy stored in a parallel plate capacitor C, charged to a potential difference V. (b) Obtain the equivalent capacitance of the network given below (C1=100pF with 200pF capacitors on either side, C2 and C3 of 200pF in series, and C4=100pF). For a supply of 300 V, determine the charge and voltage across C4.
Solution
(a) When the charge is q the potential is Cq, so the work to add dq is Cqdq. Integrating from 0 to Q:
U=∫0QCqdq=2CQ2
U=2CQ2=21CV2
(b) Series pair C2,C3:
C′=200+200200×200=100pF
In parallel with C1 gives 200pF, in series with the two 200pF capacitors: