A parallel-plate capacitor is constructed from two 10 cm 10 cm electrodes spaced 1.0 mm apart.

Question:

A parallel-plate capacitor is constructed from two 10 cm × 10 cm electrodes spaced 1.0 mm apart. The capacitor plates are charged to ±10 nC, then disconnected from the battery.

a. How much energy is stored in the capacitor?

b. Insulating handles are used to pull the capacitor plates apart until the spacing is 2.0 mm. Now how much energy is stored in the capacitor?

c. Energy must be conserved. How do you account for the difference between a and b?

Fantastic news! We've Found the answer you've been seeking!

Step by Step Answer:

Question Posted: