Question:medium

charge stored in capacitors


If the total charge stored in capacitors is equal to 100μc, then find the value of x. (10V)

Updated On: Mar 29, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

Understanding the Problem

We are given three capacitors connected in parallel, with capacitances 5 μF, x μF, and 2 μF. The total charge stored is 100 μC when a potential difference of 10 V is applied. We need to find the value of x.

Solution

1. Use the Formula for Total Capacitance in Parallel:

When capacitors are connected in parallel, the total capacitance \( C_{\text{eq}} \) is the sum of the individual capacitances:

\( C_{\text{eq}} = C_1 + C_2 + C_3 \)

Given \( C_1 = 5 \, \mu\text{F} \), \( C_2 = x \, \mu\text{F} \), and \( C_3 = 2 \, \mu\text{F} \), we have:

\( C_{\text{eq}} = 5 + x + 2 = (7 + x) \, \mu\text{F} \)

2. Use the Formula for the Charge Stored in a Capacitor:

The charge stored on the capacitors is given by the formula:

\( Q = C_{\text{eq}} V \)

From the problem, we know that the total charge \( Q = 100 \, \mu\text{C} \) and \( V = 10 \, \text{V} \). Substituting the values into the equation:

\( 100 = (7 + x) \times 10 \)

3. Solve for x:

\( 100 = 70 + 10x \)

\( 10x = 100 - 70 = 30 \)

\( x = \frac{30}{10} = 3 \)

Corrected Final Answer

Thus, the value of \( x \) is \( 3 \).

Note: The original calculation had an error in summing the constant terms.

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