Capacitor Charge Equation:
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The capacitor charge equation (Q = CV) relates the charge (Q) stored on a capacitor to its capacitance (C) and the voltage (V) applied across it. This fundamental equation is essential in electronics and electrical engineering.
The calculator uses the capacitor charge equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation shows that the charge stored in a capacitor is directly proportional to both its capacitance and the applied voltage.
Details: Calculating capacitor charge is crucial for designing circuits, determining energy storage capacity, and ensuring proper operation of electronic devices.
Tips: Enter capacitance in farads (F) and voltage in volts (V). All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: What is a farad?
A: A farad is the SI unit of capacitance, representing one coulomb of charge stored per volt of potential difference.
Q2: What are typical capacitor values?
A: Most capacitors range from picofarads (pF) to millifarads (mF), with supercapacitors reaching several farads.
Q3: Does this equation work for all capacitor types?
A: Yes, it applies to all capacitor types (ceramic, electrolytic, film, etc.) when operating within their rated limits.
Q4: How does charge relate to energy?
A: Energy stored in a capacitor is \( E = \frac{1}{2}CV^2 \), which is different from the charge calculation.
Q5: What happens if voltage exceeds capacitor rating?
A: The capacitor may fail or even explode. Always use capacitors within their rated voltage.