02

CAPACITANCE
Chapter 02

Capacitance
1. Capacitance
1.1 Definition 2.2 Symbol
The symbols of capacitor are shown below
We know that charge given to a conductor increases its
potential i.e., Q  V  Q = CV or
Where C is a proportionality constant, called capacity or
capacitance of conductor. Hence capacitance is the ability of 2.3 Capacitance
conductor to hold the charge (and associated electrical
The capacitance of a capacitor is defined as the magnitude of
energy).
the charge Q on the positive plate divided by the magnitude
of the potential difference V between the plates i.e., C = Q/V.
1.2 Unit and dimensional formula
Coulomb
S.I. unit is = Farad (F) NOTE:
Volt
Smaller S.I. units are mF,  F, nF and pF Capacitance of a capacitor is constant for the given
dimensions & medium.
(1mF = 10 −3
F, 1F = 10−6 F, 1nF = 10−9 F, 1pF = 10−12 F)
2.4 Charge on capacitor
C.G.S. unit is Stat Farad. 1F = 9× 1011 Stat Farad.
Dimension: [C] = [M–1 L–2 T4A2]. Net charge on a capacitor is zero, but when we speak of the
charge Q on a capacitor, we are referring to the magnitude of

2. Capacitor the charge on each plate.

2.5 Energy stored

2.1 Definition
When a capacitor is charged by a voltage source (say battery)
A capacitor is a device that stores electric energy. It is also it stores the electric energy.
named condenser.
U 1
or Energy density = = 0 E 2
volume 2
A capacitor is a pair of two conductors of any shape, which
are close to each other and usually have equal and opposite If C = Capacitance of capacitor; Q = Charge on capacitor and
charge. V = Potential difference across capacitor then energy stored
1 1 Q2
in capacitor U = CV 2 = QV = .
2 2 2C
NOTE:
In charging an uncharged capacitor by a battery half the
energy supplied is stored in the capacitor and remaining
half energy (1/2 QV) is lost in the form of heat.

Fig. 2.1

Capacitance
CAPACITANCE 75

2.6 Types of capacitors

Capacitors are of mainly three types as described in given table:

Parallel Plate Capacitor Spherical Capacitor Cylindrical Capacitor

It consists of two parallel metallic plates It consists of two concentric conducting It consists of two concentric
(may be circular, rectangular, square) spheres of radii a and b (a < b). Inner cylinders of radii a and b (a < b),
separated by a small distance sphere is given charge +Q, while outer inner cylinder is given charge +Q
A = Area of plate sphere is given charge –Q [by battery] while outer cylinder is given charge
Q = Magnitude of charge –Q. Common length of the cylinders
is l then

Fig. 2.4
Fig. 2.2 Fig. 2.3

0 A ab 20
Capacitance: C = Capacitance: C = 40 Capacitance: C =
d b−a b
n 
In the presence of dielectric medium In the presence of dielectric medium a
(dielectric constant K) (dielectric constant K) In the presence of dielectric medium
K0 A ab (dielectric constant K)
C= C = 40 K 2 0 K
d b−a C =
b
ln  
a

Capacitance
76 CAPACITANCE

2.7 Capacity of an isolated spherical conductor    2

A  | F |=  A = Q
2 2
F = −A   =−
When charge Q is given to a spherical conductor of radius R,  20  20 2 0 2 0 A
then potential at the surface of sphere is
NOTE:
1 Q
V= .
4 0 R

Fig. 2.7
• Capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor depends
upon the effective overlapping area of plates,
separation between the plates and the dielectric
Fig. 2.5
medium filled between the plates. While it is
independent of charge given, potential raised or
nature of metals and thickness of plates.
• The distance between the plates is kept small to
Q
Hence its capacity C = = 40 R avoid fringing or edge effect (non-uniformity of the
V field) at the boundaries of the plates.
1
 C = 40 R = .R
9 109
in C.G.S. C = R
2.8 Force between the Plates of a Parallel Plate
Capacitor

Field due to charge on one plate on the other is E = ,
2 0
hence the force F = QE

Fig. 2.8
• Spherical conductor is equivalent to a spherical
capacitor with its outer sphere of infinite radius.
• A spherical capacitor behaves as a parallel plate
capacitor if its spherical surfaces have large radii
and are close to each other.
• The intensity of electric field between the plates
of a parallel plate capacitor (E = /  0 ) does not
depends upon the distance between them.
Fig. 2.6 • Radial and non-uniform electric field exists
between the spherical surfaces of spherical
capacitor.

Capacitance
CAPACITANCE 77
75

3. Grouping of Capacitor
Series Grouping Parallel grouping

1. Charge on each capacitor remains same and equals to the 1. Potential difference across each capacitor remains
main charge supplied by the battery Q = Q 1 + Q2 + Q3
V = V 1 + V2 + V 3 +Q1 – Q1
+ –
+ –
+ –
+ –
Q1
+Q2 – Q2
+ –
+ –
+ –
Q2 + –

Q Q3 +Q3 – Q3
+ –
+ –
+ –
+ –

V
Fig. 2.9 Fig. 2.10

2. 1 1 1 1 2.
Equivalent capacitance = + + Ceq = C1 + C2 + C3
Ceq C1 C 2 C3

3. 3. If two capacitors having capacitance C1 and C2

If two capacitors having capacitances C1 and C2 are
respectively are connected in parallel then
connected in series then
 C1   C2 
 C2   C1  Q1 =   .Q and Q2 =  .Q
V1 =   .V and V2 =   .V  C1 + C2   C1 + C2 
 C1 + C2   C1 + C2 

4.
If n identical capacitors each having capacitances C are 4. If n identical capacitors are connected in parallel
connected in series with supply voltage V then Equivalent capacitance Ceq = nC and Charge on
C
Equivalent capacitance C eq = and Potential difference each capacitor Q =
Q
.
n n
V
across each capacitor V  =
n

NOTE: NOTE:
• Two capacitors are in series when charge leaving one • Two capacitors are in parallel when their positive
capacitor directly enters another capacitor, undivided plates are connected, and negative plates are also
and undisturbed. connected with each other.
• In series combination equivalent capacitance is always • In parallel combination, equivalent capacitance is
lesser than that of either of the individual capacitors. always greater than the individual capacitance

Capacitance
78 CAPACITANCE

3.1 Simple Circuits (Series & Parallel)

Suppose equivalent capacitance is to be determined in the following networks between points A and B

(i)

Fig. 2.11

(ii)

Fig. 2.12

(iii)

Fig. 2.13

Capacitance
CAPACITANCE 79

4. Charge Distribution 5. Wheatstone Bridge Based

Method Circuit
(Circuit Solving method) If in a network five capacitors are arranged as shown the in
Sometimes it may not be easy to find the equivalent following figure, the network is called whetstone bridge type
capacitance of a combination using the equations for series- C1 C3
parallel combinations. We may then use the general method circuit. If it is balanced, then = hence C5 is removed
C2 C4
as follows:
and equivalent capacitance between A and B
Step 1:
(i)
Identify the two points between which the equivalent
capacitance is to be calculated. Call any one of them as A and
the other as B.
Step 2:
Connect a battery between A and B with the positive terminal
connected to A and the negative terminal to B. Send a charge
+Q from the positive terminal of the battery and –Q from the
negative terminal of the battery. Fig. 2.14
Step 3:
Write the charges appearing on each of the plates of the (ii)
capacitors. The charge conservation principle may be used.
The facing surfaces of a capacitor will always have equal and
opposite charges. Assume variables Q1, Q2 .... etc. for
charges wherever needed. Mark the polarity across each
circuit element corresponding to higher (+) & lower (–)
potential ends.
Step 4:
The algebraic sum of all the potential differences along a
Fig. 2.15
closed loop in a circuit is zero.
While using this rule, one starts from a point on the loop and (iii)
goes along the loop, either clockwise or anticlockwise, to
reach the same point again. Any potential difference
encountered (from –ve to +ve) is taken to be positive and any
potential drop (from +ve to –ve) is taken to be negative.
The net sum of all these potential differences should be zero.
The loop law follows directly from the fact that electrostatic
force is a conservative force and the work done by it in any
closed path is zero. Fig. 2.16
Step 5:
C1C2 CC
Number of variables Q1, Q2, etc. must be the same as the CAB = + 3 4
C1 + C2 C3 + C4
number of equations obtained (loop equation). The equivalent
Q
capacitance Ceq = , where V is the potential difference
6. Dielectric
V
across the assumed battery terminals.
Dielectrics are insulating (non-conducting) materials which
transmits electric effect without conducting. We know that in

Capacitance
 CAPACITANCE
80

every atom, there is a positively charged nucleus and a 6.3 Dielectric breakdown and dielectric
negatively charged electron cloud surrounding it. The two strength
oppositely charged regions have their own centres of charge.
The centre of positive charge is the centre of mass of If a very high electric field is created in a dielectric, the outer
positively charged protons in the nucleus. The centre of electrons may get detached from their parent atoms. The
negative charge is the centre of mass of negatively charged dielectric then behaves like a conductor. This phenomenon
electrons in the atoms/molecules. is known as dielectric breakdown.
The maximum value of electric field (or potential gradient)
6.1 Polarization of a dielectric slab that a dielectric material can tolerate without its electric
It is the process of inducing equal and opposite charges on the breakdown is called its dielectric strength.
two faces of the dielectric on the application of electric field. S.I. unit of dielectric strength of a material is V/m but
practical unit is kV/mm.

6.4 Variation of Different Variables (Q, C, V, E

and U) of Parallel Plate Capacitor
Suppose we have an air filled charged parallel plate
capacitor having variables as follows:
Charge: Q,
Q
Surface charge density:  = ,
A
0 A
Capacitance: C =
d
Fig. 2.17

Fig. 2.17

Suppose a dielectric slab is inserted between the plates of a

capacitor. As shown in the figure.
Induced electric field inside the dielectric is E i, hence this
induced electric field decreases the main field E to E – Ei i.e.,
New electric field between the plates will be Enet = E – Ei.

6.2 Dielectric constant

After placing a dielectric slab in an electric field. The net field
is decreased in that region hence
If E = Original electric field and Enet = Net electric field.
Fig. 2.18
E
Then = K where K is called dielectric constant. K is also
E net
known as relative permittivity (r) of the material.
The value of K is always greater than one. For vacuum there
Potential difference across the plates: V = E . d
is no polarization and hence E = E’ and K = 1
QA
 1  1 Electric field between the plates: E =
Ei = E 1 −   i =  1 −  0
 k  k
1 Q2 1
Energy stored: U = CV 2 = = QV
2 2C 2

Capacitance
CAPACITANCE 81

Quantity Battery is Removed Battery Remains connected

Fig. 2.19 Fig. 2.20

Capacitance C’ = KC C’ = KC
Charge Q’ = Q (Charge is conserved) Q’ = KQ
Potential V’ = V/K V’ = V (Since Battery maintains the potential difference)
Intensity E’ = E/K E’ = E
Energy U’ = U/K U’ = KU

NOTE:

If nothing is said it is to be assumed that battery

is disconnected.

7. When Dielectric is
Partially Filled Between
the Plates Fig. 2.21

If a dielectric slab of thickness t (t < d) is inserted between

E
the plates as shown below, then E = Main electric field V = E ( d − t ) + E t = E ( d − t ) + .t
K
between the plates, Ei= Induced electric field in dielectric.
E’ = (E – Ei) = The reduced value of electric field in the  t   t  Q  t 
 V = E  d − t +  =  d − t +  = d − t + 
dielectric. Potential difference between the two plates of  K  0  K  A0  K
capacitor is given by

Capacitance
 CAPACITANCE
82

Now capacitance of the capacitor

Q 0 A 7.1 When a metallic slab is inserted between
C =  C = the plates
V d−t+
t
K

Fig. 2.22 Fig. 2.24

0 A 0 A
C = Capacitance C =
 t t t 
d − ( t1 + t 2 + t 3 + ......) +  1 + 2 + 3 + ......  (d − t )
 K1 K 2 K 3 

Fig. 2.25

C’ =  (In this case capacitor is said to be short circuited)

Fig. 2.23

0 A
C =
 t1 t t t 
 + 2 + 3 + 4 
 1
K K 2 K 3 K 4 

Capacitance
CAPACITANCE 83

8. When Separation Between the Plates is Changing

1
If separation between the plates changes then it’s capacitance also changes according to C  . The effect on other variables
d
depends on the fact that whether the charged capacitor is disconnected from the battery or battery is still connected.

8.1 Separation is increasing

Quantity Battery is removed Battery remains connected

Fig. 2.26

Fig. 2.27

Capacitance 1 Decreases i.e., C’ < C

Decreases because C  i.e. C’ < C
d

Charge Remains constant because a battery is not present i.e., Decreases because battery is present i.e., Q’
Q’ = Q <Q

Potential difference Q 1 Remaining charge (Q – Q’) goes back to the

Increases because V =  V  i.e., V  V V’ = V (Since Battery maintains the
C C potential.

Electric Field  Q Q
Remains constant because E = = i.e., Decreases because E =  E  Q i.e.,
0 A0 A0
E’ = E E’ < E

Energy Q2 1 Decreases because

Increases because U =  U  i.e., U’ > U 1
2C C U = CV 2  U  C i.e., U’ < U
2

Capacitance
 CAPACITANCE
84

8.2 Separation is decreasing

Quantity Battery is removed Battery remains connected

1 Increases i.e., C’ > C

Capacitance Increases because C  i.e. C’ > C
d

Remains constant because battery is not present i.e., Increases because battery is present i.e., Q’
Charge
>Q
Q’ = Q
Remaining charge (Q’ – Q) is supplied by
the battery.

Q 1
Potential difference Decreases because V =  V  i.e., V’ < V V’ = V (Since Battery maintains the
C C
potential difference)
Q
 Q Increases because E =  E  Q i.e.,
Electric Field Remains constant because E = = i.e., E’ = E A0
0 A0
E’ > E
1
Q2 1 Increases because U = CV 2  U  C i.e.,
Energy Decreases because U =  U i.e. U’ < U 2
2C C
U’ > U

9. Redistribution of Charge Charge on capacitors redistributed and new charge on

them will be ,
Between Two Capacitors  C1   C2 
Q'1 = Q   Q '2 = Q   Q = Q1+Q2
When a charged capacitor is connected across an uncharged  C1 + C2   C1 + C2 
capacitor, then redistribution of charge occur to equalize the
Q1 + Q2 C1V1 + C2 V2
potential difference across each capacitor. Some energy is The common potential V = = and
C1 + C2 C1 + C2
also wasted in the form of heat.
C1C2
loss of energy U = ( V1 − V2 )
2
Suppose we have two charged capacitors C1 and C2 after
2 ( C1 + C 2 )
disconnecting these two from their respective batteries. These
two capacitors are connected to each other as shown below NOTE:
(positive plate of one capacitor is connected to positive plate
of other while negative plate of one is connected to negative Two capacitors of capacitances C1 and C2 are
plate of other) charged to potential of V1 and V2 respectively.
After disconnecting from batteries they are again
connected to each other with reverse polarity i.e.,
positive plate of a capacitor connected to negative
plate of other. So common potential

Q1 − Q2 C1V1 − C2 V2
V= = .
C1 + C2 C1 + C2
Fig. 2.28

Capacitance
 CAPACITANCE 85

10. Van de Graaff

Construction: The essential parts of Van de Graaff generator
are shown in fig. 2.29 is large spherical conducting shell of
Electrostatics radius equal to a few meters. This is supported by a
conducting shell of radius equal to a few metres. This is
Generator supported at a suitable height (of several metres above the
ground) over the insulating pillars p1, p2. A long narrow belt
A Van de Graaff generator is a device used for building up
of insulating material like, silk, rubber or rayon is wrapped
high potential differences of the order of a few million volts.
around two pulleys P1 and P2. P1 is at the ground level and
Such high potential differences are used to accelerate charged
particles like electrons, protons, ions etc. needed for various P2 is at the centre of S. The belt is kept moving continuously
experiments of Nuclear Physics. over the pulleys with the help of a motor (not shown). B1 and

It was designed by Van de Graaff in the year 1931. B2 are two sharply pointed metal combs fixed as shown. B1
is called the spray comb and B2 is called the collecting comb.

The positive ions to be accelerated are produced in a

discharge tube D. The ion source lies at the head of the tube
inside the spherical shell. The other end of the tube carrying
the target nucleus is earthed.
The generator is enclosed in a steel chamber C filled with
nitrogen or methane at high pressure in order to minimize
leakage in a steel spherical conductor.
Working: The spray comb is given a positive potential
4
(» 10 volt) w.r.t. the earth by high tension source H.T. Due
to discharging action of sharp points, a positively charged
electric wind is set up, which sprays positive charge on the
belt (corona discharge). As the belt moves, and reaches the
comb., a negative charge is induced on the sharp ends of
collecting comb B2 and an equal positive charge is induced
on the farther end of B2. This positive charge shifts
immediately to the outer surface of S. Due to discharging
action of sharp points of B2, a negatively charged electric
wind is set up. This neutralizes the positive charge on the belt.
The uncharged belt returns down, collects the positive charge
from B1, which in turn is collected by B2. This is repeated.
Thus, the positive charge on S goes on accumulating.
Now, the capacity of spherical shell c = 4  0 R, where R is
Fig. 2.29 radius of the shell.
Q Q
As V= V =
C 4 0 R

Hence the potential V of the spherical shell goes on increasing

Principle: This generator is based on with increase in Q.
(i) the action of sharp points, i.e., the phenomenon of corona The breakdown field of air is about 3 × 106 V/m. The moment
discharge. the potential of spherical shell exceeds this value, air around
(ii) the property that charge given to a hollow conductor is S is ionized and leakage of charge starts. The leakage is
transferred to outer surface and is distributed uniformly minimized by housing the generator assembly inside a steel
over it. chamber filled with nitrogen or methane at high pressures.

Capacitance
 CAPACITANCE
86

If q is the charge on the ion to be accelerated and V is the

potential difference developed across the ends of the discharge
tube, then energy acquired by the ions = qV. The ions hit the
target with this energy and carry out the artificial transmutation
etc.

11. Combination of Drops

Suppose we have n identical drops each having radius r,
Capacitance c, Charge q, Potential v and Energy u.
If these drops are combined to form a big drop of radius R,
Capacitance C, Charge Q, Potential V and Energy U then –
(i) Charge on big drop: Q = nq
(ii) Radius of big drop: Volume of big drop = n  volume
of a single drop i.e.,
4 3 4
R = n  r 3 , R = n1/3 r
3 3
(iii) Capacitance of big drop: C = n1/3 c
Q nq
(iv) Potential of big drop: V= = V = n2/3 v
C n1/3c
1 1
(v) Energy of big drop: U = CV 2 = (n1/3 c)(n 2/3 v) 2
2 2
U = n5/3 u
NOTE:
• It is a very common misconception that a capacitor stores
charge but actually a capacitor stores electric energy in the
electrostatic field between the plates.
• Two plates of unequal area can also form a capacitor but
effective overlapping area is considered.

Capacitance
CAPACITANCE 87

5. A capacitor is so configured that it confines the electric

NCERT Corner field lines within a small region of space. Thus, even
though field may have considerable strength, the
Important Points to Remember potential difference between the two conductors of a
capacitor is small.
1. A capacitor is a system of two conductors separated by 6. The medium between the plates of a capacitor is filled
an insulator. Its capacitance is defined by C = Q/V, with an insulating substance (dielectric), the electric
where Q and –Q are the charges on the two conductors field due to the charged plates induces a net dipole
and V is the potential difference between them. C is moment in the dielectric. This effect, called
determined purely geometrically, by the shapes, sizes
polarization, gives rise to a field in the
and relative positions of the two conductors.
opposite direction. The net electric field inside the
2. The unit of capacitance is Farad:, dielectric and hence the potential difference between
the plates is thus reduced. Consequently, the
1 F = 1 C V–1. For a parallel plate capacitor (with capacitance C increases from its value C0 when there
vacuum between the plates), is no medium (vacuum), C = KC0

A where K is the dielectric constant of the insulating

C = 0 substance.
d

where A is the area of each plate and d is the separation

between them.

3. For capacitors in the series combination, the total

capacitance C is given by

1 1 1 1
= + + + ...
C C1 C2 C3

In the parallel combination, the total capacitance C is:

C = C1 + C2 + C3 + ...

where C1, C2, C3... are individual capacitances.

4. The energy U stored in a capacitor of capacitance C,

with charge Q and voltage V is

1 1 1 Q2
U = QV = CV 2 =
2 2 2 C

The electric energy density (energy per unit volume) in

1
a region with electric field is   0 E 2 .
2

Capacitance
 CAPACITANCE
88

Solved Example
Therefore, the capacitance when substance of
dielectric constant 6 is filled between the plates is 96
pF.
Example-1
Example-2
A parallel plate capacitor with air between the plates
has a capacitance of 8 pF (1pF = 10–12 F). What will Three capacitors each of capacitance 9 pF are
be the capacitance if the distance between the plates connected in series. [NCERT]
is reduced by half, and the space between them is (a) What is the total capacitance of the combination?
filled with a substance of dielectric constant 6?
(b) What is the potential difference across each
[NCERT] capacitor if the combination is connected to a 120 V
Sol. It is provided that, supply?

Capacitance between the capacitor’s parallel plates (a) It is provided that,

C = 8pF Sol. Capacitance of each three capacitors, C = 9pF
Originally, the distance separating the parallel plates The formula for equivalent capacitance (C’) of the
was d, and the air was filled in it. capacitors’ series combination is given by
Dielectric constant of air, k = 1 1 1 1 1
= + +
The formula for Capacitance is given by: C' C C C
1 1 1 1
 = + +
k0 A C' 9 9 9
C=
d 1 3
 =
C' 9
Here, k = 1, so,
 C ' = 3pF
0 A
C= Clearly, total capacitance of the combination of the
d
capacitors is 3pF.
Where, 0 is the permittivity of free space
(b) Provided that,
A is the area of each plate.
Supply voltage, V = 120 V
If the distance separating the plates is decreased to
Potential difference (V’) across each capacitor will
half and the substance has a dielectric constant of 6
be one – third of the supply voltage.
filled in between the plates.
V’ = 120/3 = 40 V
Then,
Clearly, the potential difference across each
d
k' = 6, d’ = capacitor is 40 V.
2
Example-3
Hence, capacitor’s capacitance becomes,
Three capacitors of capacitances 2 pF, 3 pF and 4 pF
k ' 0 A
C' = are connected in parallel. [NCERT]
d'
(a) What is the total capacitance of the combination?
6 A
 C' = 0 (b) Determine the charge on each capacitor if the
d
2 combination is connected to a 100 V supply.
 C ' = 12C Sol. (a) Provided that,
 C ' = 12  8 = 96pF
Capacitances of the given capacitors are,
CAPACITANCE 89

C1 = 2pF ; C2 = 3pF ; C3 = 4pF then equivalent capacitance (C’) of the series

combination is given by
The formula for equivalent capacitance (C’) of the
capacitor’s parallel combination is given by 1 1 1
= +
C' C C
C’ = C1 + C2 + C3
1 1 1
 = +
 C’ = 2 + 3 + 4 = 9pF C ' 600 600
1 2
Therefore, total capacitance of the combination is  =
C ' 600
9pF.  C ' = 300pF
(b) We have,
New electrostatic energy will be,
Supply voltage, V = 100 V
1
E ' = C 'V 2
Charge on a capacitor with capacitance C and 2
potential difference V is given by, q = CV ……(i) 1
 E ' =  300  10−12  2002
2
For C = 2pF,
 E ' = 0.6  10−5 J
Charge = VC = 100  2 = 200 pF
Loss in electrostatic energy = E – E’
For C = 3pF,
 E – E’ = 1.2  10-5 – 0.6  10-5 = 0.6  10-5 J
Charge = VC = 100  3 = 300 pF
 E – E’ = 6  10-6 J
For C = 4pF,
Clearly, the lost electrostatic energy in the process is
Charge = VC = 100  4 = 400 pF 6  10-6 J.

Example-4 Example-5

A 600pF capacitor is charged by a 200V supply. It An electrical technician requires a capacitance of

is then disconnected from the supply and is 2F in a circuit across a potential difference of 1 kV.
connected to another uncharged 600 pF capacitor. A large number of 1F capacitors are available to
How much electrostatic energy is lost in the him each of which can withstand a potential
process? [NCERT] difference of not more than 400 V. Suggest a
possible arrangement that requires the minimum
Sol. It is provided that,
number of capacitors. [NCERT]
Capacitance of the capacitor, C = 600 pF
Sol. It is provided that,
Potential difference, V = 200 V Total required capacitance, C = 2F
Potential difference, V = 1kV = 1000V
The formula for stored electrostatic energy in the Capacitance of each capacitor, C1 = 1F
capacitor is given by, Each capacitor can withstand a potential difference,
1 V1 = 400V
E= CV 2 Suppose a number of capacitors are joined in series
2
and these series circuits are joined in parallel to each
1 other. The potential difference in each row must be
E=  600  10 −12  200 2
2 1000 V and potential difference across each
capacitor must be 400 V. Clearly, the capacitors’
 E = 1.2  10-5 J numbers in each row is given by,
If supply is removed from the capacitor and another 1000
= 2.5
capacitor of capacitance C = 600 pF is joined to it, 400
 CAPACITANCE
90

Hence, there are three capacitors across each row. C” = C1 + C’

Capacitance of each row,
 C” = 100 + 100 = 200pF
1
= F
3 C” and C4 are connected in series, therefore, their
There are n rows and each row is having three equivalent capacitance be C.
capacitors, which are joined in parallel. Clearly,
circuit’s equivalent capacitance is given by, 1 1 1
= +
1 1 1 1 n C 200 100
+ + + ......n terms = 1 3
3 3 3 3 3  =
However, circuit’s capacitance is given as 2F. C 200
200
 =2
n C= pF
3 3
n=6
Clearly, the equivalent capacitance of the circuit is
Clearly, there are 6 rows an each row having three
200
capacitors. A minimum of 6  3 = 18 capacitors are pF
3
needed for the given arrangement.
Example-6 Potential difference across C” = V”

Obtain the equivalent capacitance of the network in Potential difference across C4 = V4

Fig. For a 300 V supply, determine the charge and
voltage across each capacitor. [NCERT]  V4 + V” = V = 300 V

Charge on C4 is given by,

Q4 = VC

200
 Q4 = 300   10-12
3

 Q4 = 2  10-8C

Q4
 V4 =
C4

2 10−8
Sol. It is provided that,  V4 = = 200V
100 10−12
Capacitance of capacitor C1 is 100 pF.
Capacitance of capacitor C2 is 200 pF. Voltage across C1 is given by,
Capacitance of capacitor C3 is 200 pF.
V1 = V – V4
Capacitance of capacitor C4 is 100 pF.
Supply potential, V = 300 V  V1 = 300 – 200 = 100 V
Capacitance C2 and C3 are connected in series,
therefore, their equivalent capacitance be C’. Hence, potential difference, V1, across C1 is 100 V.

1 1 1 Charge on C1 is given by,

= +
C ' 200 200 Q1 = V1C1
1 2
 =
C ' 200  Q1 = 100  100  10-12
 C ' = 100pF
 Q1 = 10-8 C
Capacitors C1 and C’ are in parallel, therefore, their
C2 and C3 having same capacitances have a 100 V
equivalent capacitance be C”.
potential difference together. Since C2 and C3 are in
CAPACITANCE 91

series, the potential difference across C2 and C3 is 0 A

C=
given by, d

V2 = V3 = 50 V Electrostatic energy stored in capacitor is given by,

Charge on C2 is given by, 1
E1 = CV 2
2
Q2 = V2C2

 Q2 = 50  200  10-12 1 0 A 2
 E1 = V
2 d
 Q2 = 10-8C
Where, 0 is the Permittivity of free space
Charge on C3 is given by,
0 = 8.854  10-12C2N-1m-2
Q3 = V3C3
1 8.854 10−12  90 10−4
 Q3 = 50  200  10-12  E1 = 4002
2 2.5 10−3
 Q3 = 10-8 C  E1 = 2.55 106 J

Clearly, the equivalent capacitance of the given The stored electrostatic energy inside the capacitor
circuit is
200
pF and is, 2.55  106 J.
3
(b) Volume of the given capacitor, V’ = A  d
Q1 = 10-8C, Q2 = 10-8C, Q3= 10-8C, Q4 = 2  10-8C,
 V’ = 90  10-4  2.5  10-3 = 2.25  10-5 m3
V1 = 100 V, V2 = 50 V, V3 = 50V, V4 = 200 V.
Energy density in the capacitor is given by,
Example-7
E1
The plates of a parallel plate capacitor have an area u=
V'
of 90 cm2 each and are separated by 2.5 mm. The 2.55  10−6
capacitor is charged by connecting it to a 400 V u= = 0.113Jm −3
2.55  10−5
supply. [NCERT] E
Also, u = 1
(a) How much electrostatic energy is stored by the V'
capacitor?
1 o A 2
V 2
(b) View this energy as stored in the electrostatic 1 V
u= 2 d = o  
field between the plates, and obtain the energy per Ad 2 d
unit volume u. Hence arrive at a relation between u
and the magnitude of electric field E between the V
Where, = E, E is electric field.
plates. d

Sol. (a) It is provided that, 1

u= o E 2
2
Area of the parallel capacitor’s plates,
Hence, derived.
A = 90 cm2 = 90  10-4 m2
Example-8
Distance separating the plates,
A 4 µF capacitor is charged by a 200 V supply. It is
d = 2.5mm = 2.5  10-3 m then disconnected from the supply, and is connected
Potential difference across the plates, V = 400 V to another uncharged 2 µF capacitor. How much
electrostatic energy of the first capacitor is lost in the
The formula for capacitance will be, form of heat and electromagnetic radiation?
 CAPACITANCE
92

[NCERT] Sol. Let F be the applied force to separate the parallel

plates of a capacitor by a distance of  x . Hence,
Sol. It is provided that,
work done by the force = Fx
A charged capacitor has capacitance, C1 = 4F = 4
As a result, the capacitor’s potential energy rises by
 10-6 F
an amount given as uAx
Supply voltage, V1 = 200V Where, u is the energy density,
Electrostatic energy stored in C1 capacitor is given A is the area of each plate,
by,
d is the Distance separating the plates,
1
E1 = C1V12 V is the difference in potential across the plates.
2
1 The work done will be equal to the rise in the
 E1 =  4  10−6  2002
2 potential energy i.e.,
 E1 = 8  10−2 J
Fx = uAx
An uncharged capacitor’s capacitance, C2 = 2F = 2 1
 10-6 F  F = uA = oE2A
2
When C2 is joined to the circuit, the potential The formula for electric intensity is given by,
attained by it is V2.
V
According to the conservation of charge, E=
d
V2(C1 + C2) = V1C1 1 V
 F = o E   A
2 d
 V2(4 + 2)  10-6 = 200  4  10-6
Hence, capacitance will be,
400
 V2 = V
3 o A
C=
d
The formula for electrostatic energy for the two
1
capacitor combination is given by,  F = CVE
2
1
E 2 = V22 (C1 + C2 ) The formula for charge in the capacitor is,
2
2
1  400  −6
Q = CV
 E2 =   (4 + 2) 10
2 3 
1
 E 2 = 5.33 10−2 J F= QE
2

The amount of lost electrostatic energy by capacitor The actual origin of the force formula’s half factor
is, is that just outside the conductor, the field is E, and
it is zero inside it. Henceforth, it is the average
= E1 – E2 = 0.08 – 0.0533 = 0.0267 J amount of the field that contributes to the force.
Example-9 Example-10
Show that the force on each plate of a parallel plate
A spherical capacitor has an inner sphere of radius
capacitor has a magnitude equal to (½) QE, where Q 12 cm and an outer sphere of radius 13 cm. The outer
is the charge on the capacitor, and E is the magnitude sphere is earthed and the inner sphere is given a
of electric field between the plates. Explain the charge of 2.5 µC. The space between the concentric
origin of the factor ½. [NCERT] spheres is filled with a liquid of dielectric constant
32. [NCERT]
CAPACITANCE 93

(a) Determine the capacitance of the capacitor. difference in potential is minor, and the capacitance
is higher than the isolated sphere.
(b) What is the potential of the inner sphere?

(c) Compare the capacitance of this capacitor with

that of an isolated sphere of radius 12 cm. Explain Example-11
why the latter is much smaller.
(a) A 900 pF capacitor is charged by 100 V battery
Sol. (a) It is provided that, [fig.(a)]. How much electrostatic energy is stored by
the capacitor ? (b) The capacitor is disconnected
Outer cylinder’s radius, r1 = 13 cm = 0.13 m
from the battery and connected to another 900 pF
Radius of inner cylinder, r2 = 12 cm = 0.12 m capacitor [fig. (b)]. What is the electrostatic energy
stored by the system?
Charge on the inner cylinder,

q = 2.5 C = 2.5  10-6 C

The formula for capacitor’s capacitance is given by,

4 o  r r1r2
C=
r1 − r2

Where, o is the permittivity of free space

o = 8.854  10-12 C2N-1m-2

1
Value of = 9 109 NC−2 m −2
4o

32  0.12  0.13
C=
9  109 (0.13 − 0.12)
 C  5.5  10−9 F

Hence, the capacitor’s capacitance is approximately

5.5  10-9 F.

(b) The inner sphere’s potential is given by,

q
V=
C
2.5  10−6
V= = 4.5  102 V
5.5  10−9

Hence, the inner sphere’s potential is 4.5  102V.

(c) Isolated sphere’s capacitance is given by,

C’ = 4or

 C’ = 4  8.854  10-12  12  10-2 Sol. (a) The charge on the capacitor is

 C’ = 1.33 10-11 F Q = CV = 900  10-12 F  100 V = 9  10-8 C
The isolated sphere’s capacitance is less in contrast The energy stored by the capacitor is
to the concentric spheres because the concentric
spheres’ outer sphere is earthed. Hence, the = (1/2) CV2 = (1/2) QV
94 CAPACITANCE

= (1/2)  9  10-8C  100 V = 4.5  10-6 J

(b) In the steady situation, the two capacitor have

their positive plates at the same potential, and their
negative plates at the same potential. Let the
common potential by V’. The charge on each
capacitor is then Q’ = CV/2. The total energy of the
system is C1 is in parallel with the series combination of C2
and Ceq.
1 1
= 2 Q'V ' = QV = 2.25  10 −6 J  Ceq between A and B
2 4

Thus in going from (a) to (b), though no charge is

=
(C 2  Ceq
'
) + C1
lost; the final energy is only half the initial energy. C2 + Ceq
'

Where has the remaining energy gone?

 3 6 
  + 3 = 5F
There is a transient period before the system settles  3+ 6 
to the situation (b). During this period, a transient
current flows from the first capacitor to the second. Example - 13
Energy is lost during this time in the form of heat A charged air capacitor has stored energy U0. What
and electromagnetic radiation. will be the energy stored when air is replaced by a
Example - 12 dielectric of dielectric constant K, charge Q
remaining the same.
In the figure below, the capacitance of each
Q2
capacitor is 3F. The effective capacitance between Sol. Energy stored in dielectric filled capacitor U = .
2C
A and B is
The capacitance of air capacitor = Cair

The capacitance of dielectric capacitor, C = K . Cair,

Q2
Energy stored in air capacitor, U 0 = .
2Cair

U 1 U
(a)
3
F (b) 3F  = U= 0
4 U0 K K

1
(c) 6F (d) 5F That is, energy stored is reduced to times.
K
Sol. Example - 14

Keeping the voltage of the charging source constant,

what would be the percentage change in the energy
stored in a parallel plate capacitor if the separation
between its plates were to be decreased by 10% ?

1
Sol. Energy stored in a capacitor, U = CV 2 .
2
C1 = C2 = C3 = C4 = 3F (given) For a fixed voltage U is proportional to C.

 C4 and C3 are in parallel, i.e.

Ceq = C4 + C3 = ( 3 + 3) F = 6F

Now arrangement of capacitors will be as follows

CAPACITANCE 95

0 A
Capacitance of parallel plate capacitor C = . If
d
the separation between the plates is decreased by 10 %,
10
new separation, d − d = 0.9d. .
100
0 A C 10
New capacitance C' = = = C
0.9d 0.9 9
% change in energy is
 10 
=  − 1 100 = 11.1%
9 
Sol. The equivalent capacitance of C1 and C2 in series
i.e., energy stored increases by 11.1 %.
CC 2 2
Example - 15 C' = 1 2 = = 1F
C1 + C2 2 + 2
For circuit, the equivalent capacitance between P and
Q is C’ is in parallel with C3, so equivalent capacitance of
C1, C2 and C3 is
C” is in series with C4 ; their equivalent capacitance
C4 C" 2 2
C" ' = = = 1F
C4 + C" 2 + 2
(a) 6C (b) 4C
This is in parallel with C5 ; So equivalent capacitance
(c) 3C (d) 3C across AB is CAB = 1 + 1 = 2 F
2 4
1 1
Sol. Energy stored = C AB V 2 =  2  10 −6  (6) 2
2 2
-6
= 36 × 10 J

Example- 17
Find the equivalent capacitance of the combination
between points A & B using charge distribution
method.

Sol.

1 1 1
= +
Ceq 3C C
3 +1 4
= =
3C 3C
3C
 Ceq = Assume a battery of potential V across A & B. Do the
4
charge distribution in the circuit.
Example- 16
Find the total energy stored in the capacitors in the
given network:
96 CAPACITANCE

C/2
C
C

A B
C C

C 3C 3C
 C+ =  C2 =
2 2 2
Variables: Q, q 3C/2

Loops : (ABCFA), (FCDEF)

C C
Using Kirchhoff’s voltage law in
Loop (A → B → C → F → A) A C/2 B
Q−q q
0+ − + 0 = 0  Q = 4q ...(i) 1 1 2 8 3C
3C C  + + =  C3 =
C C 3C 3C 8
Loop (F → C → D → E → F)
q Q
+ − V + 0 = 0  4q + Q = 4CV ...(ii)
C 4C
Using equations (i) and (ii) ;
CV
q= , Q = 2CV
2

Equivalent capacitance between A and B is,
Q 2CV C 3C 7C 7C
Ceq = = = 2C + =  Ceq =
V V 2 8 8 8

Example - 18 Example - 19
Find the equivalent capacitance between points A and Charge Q on a capacitor varies with voltage V as
B. shown in the figure, where Q is taken along the X-axis
and V along the Y-axis. The area of triangle OAB
C
represents

C C C
C

A C C B

Sol.
C
C C (a) Capacitance
C C
(b) Capacitive reactance
A B (c) Magnetic field between the plates
C C
(d) Energy stored in the capacitor
1 1 2 C Sol.
 + =  C1 =
C C C 2
CAPACITANCE 97

Area of Triangle OAB

= Area under V-Q graph

1
=  OB  AB
2
1
=  QV
2

= U = Energy stored in Capacitor.

Example 20
The capacities of two conductors are C1 and C2 and
their respective potentials are V1 and V2 . If they are
connected by a thin wire then the loss of energy will be

C1C2 (V1 + V2 ) C1C2 (V1 -V2 )

(a) (b)
2(C1 + C 2 ) 2(C1 +C2 )

C1C 2 (V1 -V2 ) 2 (C1 +C2 ) (V1 -V2 )

(c) (d)
2(C1 +C2 ) C1C2

Sol. Total energy before sharing charges:

1 1
U1 = C1V12 + C 2 V22
2 2
Total energy after sharing charges:

1
U2 = ( C1 +C 2 ) V 2
2
Common potential is given by:
C1V1 +C2 V2
V=
C1 +C2
 C V +C V  ( C V +C V )
2 2
1
U 2 = ( C1 +C2 )  1 1 2 2  = 1 1 2 2
2  C1 +C2  2 ( C1 +C2 )

C1C2 ( V1 -V2 )
2

Loss in energy = U = U 2 -U1 =

2 ( C1 +C2 )