1. What is Capacitance in Series?

When capacitors are connected in series, the total or equivalent capacitance is less than any individual capacitance in the series. This is different from resistors in series, where resistances add directly.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the series capacitance formula:

Where:

• \( C_{eq} \) — Equivalent capacitance (Farads)
• \( C_i \) — Individual capacitance values (Farads)

Explanation: The reciprocal of the equivalent capacitance equals the sum of the reciprocals of the individual capacitances.

3. Importance of Series Capacitance Calculation

Details: Understanding series capacitance is essential for circuit design, energy storage calculations, and analyzing capacitor networks in electronic circuits.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter capacitance values in Farads, separated by commas. All values must be positive numbers. For example: "0.000001, 0.000002, 0.000003" for 1μF, 2μF, and 3μF capacitors.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why does capacitance decrease in series?
A: In series, the total charge storage capacity decreases because the same charge must be stored across multiple capacitors, effectively increasing the total distance between plates.

Q2: What happens to voltage in series capacitors?
A: The voltage divides across the capacitors in inverse proportion to their capacitance values (larger capacitors get less voltage).

Q3: How does series capacitance compare to parallel?
A: In parallel, capacitances add directly (C_eq = C₁ + C₂ + ...), while in series they combine via reciprocals.

Q4: What are practical applications of series capacitors?
A: Used in voltage divider circuits, high-voltage applications (to share voltage across multiple capacitors), and when precise capacitance values are needed.

Q5: Can I mix different capacitance values in series?
A: Yes, but the smallest capacitor will dominate the equivalent capacitance, and voltage distribution must be carefully considered.