Q. A series combination of n₁ capacitors, each of value C₁, is charged by a source of potential difference 4V. When another parallel combination of n₂ capacitors, each of value C₂, is charged by a source of potential difference V, it has the same (total) energy stored in it, as the first combination has. The value of C₂, in terms of C₁, is then
A) 16C₁/(n₁n₂)
B) 2C₁/(n₁n₂)
C) 16(n₂/n₁)C₁
D) 2(n₂/n₁)C₁
Explanation
[Solution from source] Series: C_eq = C₁/n₁, energy = ½(C₁/n₁)(4V)² = 8C₁V²/n₁. Parallel: C_eq = n₂C₂, energy = ½n₂C₂V². Equating gives C₂ = 16C₁/(n₁n₂). Answer (1).
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.