Five capacitors are connected across a potential difference V_ab as shown in the figure.Because of the dielectrics used,each capacitor will break down if the potential across it exceeds 30.0 V.The largest that V_ab can be without damaging any of the capacitors is closest to A) 6.0 V. B) 30 V. C) 64 V. D) 150 V. E) 580 V.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The potential difference across each capacitor in series is the same. Thus, each capacitor will have a potential difference of V_ab/5. For none of the capacitors to exceed 30 V, we require: V_ab/5 ≤ 30 V V_ab ≤ 150 V Therefore, the largest potential difference that can be applied without damaging any of the capacitors is 150 V. However, note that if any one of the capacitors had a lower breakdown voltage, that voltage would limit the maximum potential difference that can be applied.

Five Capacitors Are Connected Across a Potential Difference Vab as Shown

Five Capacitors Are Connected Across a Potential Difference V_ab as Shown