Parallel capacitors refer to a configuration where multiple capacitors are connected in parallel, meaning both terminals of each capacitor are connected to corresponding terminals of other capacitors. This arrangement effectively increases the total capacitance of the circuit. Key Characteristics of Parallel Capacitors:
When capacitors are connected in parallel, the total capacitance is the sum of the individual capacitors’ capacitances. If two or more capacitors are connected in parallel, the overall effect is that of a single equivalent capacitor having the sum total of the plate areas of the individual capacitors.
C1, C2, C3, …, Cn are the individual capacitances of the capacitors. This formula indicates that the total capacitance of capacitors connected in parallel is simply the sum of the individual capacitances. To calculate the total capacitance of capacitors connected in parallel, you can use the following formula: Ceq = C1 + C2 + C3 + … + Cn Where:
This arrangement effectively increases the total capacitance of the circuit. Key Characteristics of Parallel Capacitors: Same Voltage: All capacitors in parallel experience the same voltage across their terminals. Current Division: The current flowing through each capacitor is inversely proportional to its capacitance.
To add parallel capacitors, you simply sum the individual capacitances. This is because connecting capacitors in parallel increases the total plate area, effectively increasing the capacitance. Formula: Example:
These two basic combinations, series and parallel, can also be used as part of more complex connections. Figure 8.3.1 8.3. 1 illustrates a series combination of three capacitors, arranged in a row within the circuit. As for any capacitor, the capacitance of the combination is related to both charge and voltage: