Capacitor charge & discharge
Charge current falls to zero as u_C→E; discharge reverses and can light an LED; q=Cu; area under i–t is charge.
DC circuitsInstrument reading, resistivity, Ohm’s law, EMF, RC.
Start here
Capacitor charge & discharge
RC circuit: charge/discharge with time constant τ=RC. This “Capacitor charge & discharge” page is an MVP interactive sketch — formulas, controls, and live readouts in the browser; a fuller bench may follow.
RC circuit: charge/discharge with time constant τ=RC.
Key formulas
q=CE(1-e^{-t/RC})i=E/Re^{-t/RC}\tau=RC
How to use
- Adjust parameters in the left panel.
- Use play / pause and speed controls.
- Match right-side readouts to the formulas.
- Reset to return to the initial state.
Applications
- Capacitor charge & discharge: RC circuit: charge/discharge with time constant τ=RC.
- Classroom focus: discharge reverses and can light an LED.
FAQ
What does MVP mean on this page?
An interactive sketch with formulas and parameters. Polished Ready labs are the full bench experience.
What does the “Capacitor charge & discharge” lab practice?
Tune parameters and match readouts to the “Capacitor charge & discharge” relations — useful for prep and demos.
How do I connect meters?
Ammeter in series; voltmeter in parallel — watch polarity and range.
When does Ohm’s law apply?
For ohmic conductors I=U/R; nonlinear devices need their own curves.