All questions
AP Physics 2
11.8 Resistor-Capacitor (RC) Circuits
11.6 Kirchhoff’s Loop Rule
11.4 Electric Power
AdvancedMCQMathematicalProportional AnalysisConceptual22.1k
A schematic diagram of an electric circuit. On the left vertical branch is an ideal battery with potential difference \(\Delta V_0\), positive terminal on top. Extending right from the top of the battery is a horizontal segment containing resistor \(R_1\). To the right of \(R_1\), the circuit branches into two parallel vertical paths: a middle vertical branch containing resistor \(R_2\), and a right vertical branch containing capacitor \(C\). Below capacitor \(C\) is a single-pole double-throw switch \(S\). Position 1 connects the capacitor into the circuit parallel to \(R_2\) and in series with \(R_1\) and the battery. Position 2 disconnects the battery and \(R_1\), placing capacitor \(C\) and resistor \(R_2\) in a closed single-loop circuit. A bottom horizontal conductor connects the bottom terminals of \(R_2\), switch \(S\), and the negative terminal of the battery. No other components appear.
Multi-loop RC circuit with SPDT switch.
In the circuit shown, an ideal battery of potential difference \(\Delta V_0\) is connected to two identical resistors, each of resistance \(R\), an uncharged capacitor of capacitance \(C\), and a switch \(S\). The switch is initially held in position 1 for a long time until the capacitor reaches steady state. The switch is then flipped to position 2, allowing the capacitor to fully discharge through resistor \(R_2\). What is the ratio of the discharging time constant to the charging time constant, \(\dfrac{\tau_{\text{discharge}}}{\tau_{\text{charge}}}\), and what is the total thermal energy dissipated in resistor \(R_2\) during the discharge phase?

Log In to Continue

Accounts are free! Log in to try this question, see explanations, save progress, and more!

Tools for a 5