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.
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.
Before starting this module, it will be helpful to be familiar with:
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).
Type | Title | Author | Description |
---|---|---|---|
File | Capacitance and Capacitor - MCQ (Quiz) (PDF, 144.82 KB) | Prof. Belinda Wang | The multiple choice question is intended for self-assessment of leaner’s conceptual understanding of the module content. |
File | Capacitance Example (PDF, 68.06 KB) | Prof. Belinda Wang | A step-by-step example is intended to show learners how to apply concepts taught in the lecture videos to analyze and solve problems. |
File | Capacitor Example (PDF, 73.45 KB) | Prof. Belinda Wang | A step-by-step example is intended to show learners how to apply concepts taught in the lecture videos to analyze and solve problems |
File | Glossary (PDF, 142.59 KB) | Prof. Belinda Wang | This 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. |
Image | Parallel Capacitor (JPG, 137.88 KB) | Prof. Belinda Wang | |
File | V1_2015_Capacitance and Capacitor (Storyline SCORM Package) (ZIP, 2.4 MB) | Prof. Belinda Wang | This Articulate Storyline SCORM package can be uploaded into your institution's Learning Management System. |
File | V2_2021_Capacitance and Capacitors (Rise SCORM Package) (ZIP, 2.2 MB) | Prof. Belinda Wang | This Articulate Rise SCORM package can be uploaded into your institution's Learning Management System. |
Video | Capacitance and Capacitor - Introduction | Prof. Belinda Wang | |
Video | Capacitor | Prof. Belinda Wang | The capacitance of a parellel-plate capacitor is discussed in this video. |
Video | Capacitor-Cylindrical | Prof. Belinda Wang | A derivation of capacitance of a cylindrical shaped capacitor. |
Video | Capacitor-Spherical | Prof. Belinda Wang | A derivation of capacitance of a spherical shaped capacitor. |
Video | Capacitor-Stored Energy | Prof. Belinda Wang | The stored energy in a capacitor is discussed in this video. |
Video | Dielectric | Prof. Belinda Wang | The concept of dielectric in a capacitor is introduced in this video. |
Video | Dielectric Example | Prof. Belinda Wang | An example of a capacitor with dielectric. |
Video | Capacitive Network | Prof. Belinda Wang | The equivalent capacitance of parellell or series connected capacitors. |