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MVP — interactive sketch; a fuller lab is coming later.

Parallel-plate capacitor

C = Q/U (definition) = ε_rS/(4πkd) (determination); fixed-charge vs fixed-voltage responses to d/S/ε_r are opposite.

Electric field & charge (senior)Fields, potential, and charged-particle motion.

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Parallel-plate capacitor

Parallel-plate capacitor: C depends on plate area, gap, and dielectric. This “Parallel-plate capacitor” page is an MVP interactive sketch — formulas, controls, and live readouts in the browser; a fuller bench may follow.

Parallel-plate capacitor: C depends on plate area, gap, and dielectric.

Key formulas

  • C=\frac{Q}{U}
  • C=\frac{\varepsilon_r S}{4\pi k d}
  • E=\frac{1}{2}CU^2

How to use

  1. Adjust parameters in the left panel.
  2. Use play / pause and speed controls.
  3. Match right-side readouts to the formulas.
  4. Reset to return to the initial state.

Applications

  • Parallel-plate capacitor: Parallel-plate capacitor: C depends on plate area, gap, and dielectric.
  • Classroom focus: fixed-charge vs fixed-voltage responses to d/S/ε_r are opposite.

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 “Parallel-plate capacitor” lab practice?

Tune parameters and match readouts to the “Parallel-plate capacitor” 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.

Try the lab