Problem 3
Question
A circuit consists of a source of emf, a resistor, and a capacitor, all connected in series. The capacitor is fully charged. How much current is flowing through it? a) \(i=V / R\) b) zero c) neither (a) nor (b)
Step-by-Step Solution
Verified Answer
a) i=V/R
b) zero
c) neither (a) nor (b)
Answer: b) zero
1Step 1: Understand the behavior of a charged capacitor
A fully charged capacitor means that the potential difference across its plates is equal to the source of emf (V). In other words, it can no longer store any more charge; hence no more current will flow through it.
2Step 2: Analyze the current in the circuit
Once the capacitor gets fully charged, it acts like an open circuit, disconnecting the circuit, and no current flows through it. The current through a capacitor is equal to the rate of change of charge with respect to time (\(i= dq/dt\)). If the capacitor is not charging or discharging, this rate becomes zero and no current flows through it.
3Step 3: Choose the correct answer
Since no current flows through a fully charged capacitor, the correct answer is:
b) zero
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