A LevelPhysicsCIERevision Notes19. Capacitance19.1 Capacitors19.1.3 Capacitors in Series & Parallel

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First teaching 2020

Last exams 2024

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Capacitors in Series & Parallel (CIE A Level Physics)

Revision Note

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Capacitors in Series & Parallel

  • Recall the formula for the combined capacitance of capacitors in series:

  • In parallel:

Ctotal = C1 + C2 + C3 ...

Worked example

Three capacitors with capacitance of 23 μF, 35 μF and 40 μF are connected as shown belowWE Capacitors in Series & Parallel question image, downloadable AS & A Level Physics revision notesCalculate the total capacitance between points A and B

Step 1:            Calculate the combined capacitance of the two capacitors in parallel

                        Capacitors in parallel: Ctotal = C1 + C2 + C3 …

Cparallel = 23 + 35 = 58 μF

Step 2:            Connect this combined capacitance with the final capacitor in series

Step 3:            Rearrange for the total capacitance

Examiner Tip

Both the combined capacitance equations look similar to the equations for combined resistance in series and parallel circuits. However, take note that they are the opposite way around to each other!

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    Katie M

    Author: Katie M

    Expertise: Physics

    Katie has always been passionate about the sciences, and completed a degree in Astrophysics at Sheffield University. She decided that she wanted to inspire other young people, so moved to Bristol to complete a PGCE in Secondary Science. She particularly loves creating fun and absorbing materials to help students achieve their exam potential.