CAPACITANCE

Define the capacitance of a capacitor

charge/potential difference

the ratio between charge on capacitor to the potential difference between its plates

What is meant by the capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor

capacitance = charge/potential

charge is (numerically equal to) charge on one plate

potential is a potential difference between plates

Explain how the metal plate could be act as a capacitor

potential difference is applied between the plates

causes energy to be stored (between the plates)

Function of capacitors in electrical circuit

1. blocking dc
2. in tuning (circuits)
3. in oscillator (circuits)
4. to store electrical energy

Why the capacitor connect across the terminals of a battery stores energy not charge

capacitor has equal magnitude of +ve and –ve charge

total charge on capacitor is zero

+ve and –ve charges separated so no energy stored

Two flat metal plates are held a small distance apart by means of insulating pads

Explain how the plates could act as a capacitor

potential difference applied between the plates

causes energy to be stored between the plates

Two plates are connected in parallel

State and explain the change, if any, in the average current in the ammeter

capacitance increases

grater charge so greater current

Two plates are connected in series

state and explain the effect on the current recorded on the ammeter

total capacitance is halved

current is halved