PHYS 1112 - Introductory Physics
II
Lesson 4 -
Capacitance
Study Assignment:
Study: Chapter 20, Sections 20.5 - 20.6, Chapter 21, Section 21.6
Lesson notes:
During this lesson, we will introduce capacitors, devices used in electrical circuits to store charge. We will also address the role of dielectric materials placed between the two regions of opposite charge.
Objectives:
1. Know the mathematical definition of capacitance.
2. Be able to calculate the capacitance of a parallel-plate capacitor.
3. Be able to calculate the energy stored in a charged capacitor.
4. Understand the effects of placing a dielectric material between the plates of a capacitor.
5. Know the relationship between potential differences across capacitors in parallel and series configurations.
6. Be able to calculate the equivalent capacitance of capacitors in parallel or series.
Vocabulary:
farad
end effects
dielectric constant
dielectric strength
Homework:
TP: 20-40, 20-44, 20-45, 21-55, 21-56
Want to practice more? Try this
Additional reference:
Benjamin Franklin was one of the first persons to accidentally discharge a charged capacitor with high capacitance. Read what he had to say about the experience.
Last update: August 07, 2007