Coulombs Equation:
From: | To: |
The Coulombs equation (Q = C × V) calculates the electric charge (Q) stored in a capacitor based on its capacitance (C) and the voltage (V) applied across it. This fundamental relationship is key in understanding capacitor behavior in electronic circuits.
The calculator uses the Coulombs equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation shows that the charge stored in a capacitor is directly proportional to both its capacitance and the applied voltage.
Details: Calculating charge is essential for designing circuits, determining energy storage capacity, and understanding capacitor discharge rates in electronic applications.
Tips: Enter capacitance in farads and voltage in volts. Both values must be positive numbers. For practical capacitors, values are often in microfarads (μF) or picofarads (pF).
Q1: What is a coulomb?
A: A coulomb is the SI unit of electric charge, equal to the charge transported by a constant current of one ampere in one second.
Q2: How does capacitance affect charge?
A: Higher capacitance means more charge can be stored at the same voltage. Charge is directly proportional to capacitance.
Q3: What happens to charge when voltage increases?
A: Charge increases linearly with voltage. Double the voltage means double the charge stored (for a given capacitor).
Q4: Can this equation be used for all capacitors?
A: Yes, for ideal capacitors. Real capacitors may have leakage currents or other non-ideal behaviors not accounted for in this simple equation.
Q5: How is this related to capacitor energy?
A: Energy stored in a capacitor (E) can be calculated as E = ½CV² or E = ½QV, showing the relationship between charge and energy.