Capacitance and Capacitor

Module Overview

Capacitor is the focal point of this module. In this module, a pair of parallel-plates is used to model this electric element, and its capacitance is defined. The various shapes and types (e.g. dielectric) of capacitors are discussed following the same principles found in a parallel-plate capacitor. The energy storing ability of the capacitor is examined as well, and a discussion on how to deal with multiple capacitors in an electric circuit rounds up the materials covered in this module.

Introduction

This module opens up a gate way for students to connect somewhat abstract physics of charge, electric field and electric potential with a real-life circuit element that is tangible and has a physical presence. This presents an opportunity for students to gain better understanding and appreciation for fundamental physics. Introducing measurement instruments and laboratory exercise at this point would be very beneficial in the learning process. The multiple choice questions throughout this module give students valuable feedback as they progress through each unit.

This module consists of a sequence of 8 videos with 2 step-by-step solved examples and 6 self-assessment questions. It is expected that the course instructor, will supplement the module with additional questions and possibly one laboratory exercise.

Prerequisites

Before starting this module, it will be helpful to be familiar with:

  • Dot product of two vectors,
  • Electric charge and electric field,
  • Definition of electric potential,
  • Material properties of an insulator.

Learning Outcomes

  • Understand the nature of capacitors and how to determine a quantity that measures their ability to store charges
  • Understand the sources of electric potential and calculate the amount of energy stored in a capacitor
  • Be able to analyze capacitors connected in a network

Explore Module

Please note that this preview is intended for exploration purposes only. If you'd like to use this module in one of your courses, to ensure playback and tracking, you must upload the SCORM package (downloadable below) to your institution's Learning Management System (ex. Blackboard, D2L, Moodle, etc).

Related Project Resources

TypeTitleAuthorDescription
FileCapacitance and Capacitor - MCQ (Quiz)
(PDF, 144.82 KB)
Prof. Belinda WangThe multiple choice question is intended for self-assessment of leaner’s conceptual understanding of the module content.
FileCapacitance Example
(PDF, 68.06 KB)
Prof. Belinda WangA step-by-step example is intended to show learners how to apply concepts taught in the lecture videos to analyze and solve problems.
FileCapacitor Example
(PDF, 73.45 KB)
Prof. Belinda WangA step-by-step example is intended to show learners how to apply concepts taught in the lecture videos to analyze and solve problems
FileGlossary
(PDF, 142.59 KB)
Prof. Belinda WangThis glossary contains definitions for the modules: Electric Charges and Forces, Electric Fields, Electric Potential and Potential Energy, Capacitance and Capacitor, Magnetic Fields and Forces, and Electromagnetic Induction.
ImageParallel Capacitor
(JPG, 137.88 KB)
Prof. Belinda Wang
FileV1_2015_Capacitance and Capacitor (Storyline SCORM Package)
(ZIP, 2.4 MB)
Prof. Belinda WangThis Articulate Storyline SCORM package can be uploaded into your institution's Learning Management System.
FileV2_2021_Capacitance and Capacitors (Rise SCORM Package)
(ZIP, 2.2 MB)
Prof. Belinda WangThis Articulate Rise SCORM package can be uploaded into your institution's Learning Management System.
VideoCapacitance and Capacitor - IntroductionProf. Belinda Wang
VideoCapacitorProf. Belinda WangThe capacitance of a parellel-plate capacitor is discussed in this video.
VideoCapacitor-CylindricalProf. Belinda WangA derivation of capacitance of a cylindrical shaped capacitor.
VideoCapacitor-SphericalProf. Belinda WangA derivation of capacitance of a spherical shaped capacitor.
VideoCapacitor-Stored EnergyProf. Belinda WangThe stored energy in a capacitor is discussed in this video.
VideoDielectricProf. Belinda WangThe concept of dielectric in a capacitor is introduced in this video.
VideoDielectric ExampleProf. Belinda WangAn example of a capacitor with dielectric.
VideoCapacitive NetworkProf. Belinda WangThe equivalent capacitance of parellell or series connected capacitors.