Physics for Scientists and Engineers: A Strategic Approach with Modern Physics (4th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0133942651
ISBN 13: 978-0-13394-265-1

Chapter 26 - Potential and Field - Conceptual Questions - Page 737: 11

Answer

(a) The potential difference does not change. (b) The capacitance decreases by a factor of $\frac{1}{2}$ (c) The charge decreases by a factor of $\frac{1}{2}$

Work Step by Step

(a) Since the capacitor is still connected to the battery, the potential difference does not change. The potential difference is still $\Delta V_{bat}$ (b) We can write an expression for the capacitance: $C = \frac{\epsilon_0~A}{d}$ If the separation distance doubles, then the capacitance decreases by a factor of $\frac{1}{2}$ (c) We can write an expression for the charge: $Q = C~\Delta V$ If the potential difference remains the same while the capacitance decreases by a factor of $\frac{1}{2}$, then the charge decreases by a factor of $\frac{1}{2}$
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.