Using a capacitor and two different value resistors, which of the following combinations in an RC circuit would give the greatest time constant?
A) the capacitor in series with both resistors in parallel with each other
B) the capacitor in series with both resistors in series with each other
C) the capacitor in series with the higher value resistor
D) the capacitor in series with the lower value resistor

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The time constant τ of an RC circuit is given by τ = R * C, where R is the resistance and C is the capacitance. To maximize τ, you need the largest possible resistance. In option B, both resistors are in series, so their resistances add up, giving the largest total resistance.

Using a Capacitor and Two Different Value Resistors, Which of the Following