How to Calculate Charge on Capacitors in a Series-Parallel Circuit

Hi there! I'd love to help you understand this capacitor circuit problem. Let's work through it together! 🔋

What We're Solving:

We need to find the charge stored on each of four capacitors (C1=1.0μF, C2=2.0μF, C3=3.0μF, C4=4.0μF) connected to a 12V battery. Without seeing the figure, I'll assume a common configuration and teach you the general approach!

The Approach:

The key insight is that capacitors behave differently in series vs. parallel:

• Series capacitors: Same charge, voltages add up
• Parallel capacitors: Same voltage, charges add up

We need to: 1) Find the equivalent capacitance, 2) Calculate total charge, then 3) Work backwards to find individual charges.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Step 1: Analyze the circuit configuration Since I can't see your figure, let me show you the method for a typical mixed circuit. Let's say C1 and C2 are in parallel, and this combination is in series with C3, and C4 is in parallel with the whole thing.

Step 2: Find equivalent capacitances for parallel groups For parallel capacitors: C_parallel = C1 + C2 + ...

• If C1 and C2 are parallel: C₁₂ = 1.0 + 2.0 = 3.0μF

Step 3: Find equivalent capacitances for series groups For series capacitors: 1/C_series = 1/C1 + 1/C2 + ...

• If C₁₂ and C3 are in series: 1/C₁₂₃ = 1/3.0 + 1/3.0 = 2/3.0
• So C₁₂₃ = 1.5μF

Step 4: Calculate total charge Q_total = C_equivalent × V = C_equivalent × 12V

Step 5: Work backwards using circuit rules

• Series components have the same current/charge
• Parallel components have the same voltage
• Use Q = CV and V = Q/C to find individual values

The Answer:

I need to see your specific circuit diagram to give you the exact numbers! But here's what you'll do:

• 1. Identify which capacitors are in series/parallel
• 2. Calculate equivalent capacitance
• 3. Find total charge from the battery
• 4. Use Q_series = Q_same and V_parallel = V_same to find each charge

Memory Tip:

Think "SPQV" - Series Partners share Quanta (charge), Parallel Partners share Voltage! This helps you remember which quantities are the same in each configuration.

Could you share the circuit diagram? Then I can walk you through the exact calculations for your specific setup! You're doing great tackling these circuit problems! 💪