Re: [Phys-l] Capacitance problem

[John Denker <jsd@av8n.com>]

On 03/25/2008 12:30 PM, mrmeyer@mtu.edu wrote:
> I've been told that this problem is not analytically solvable

Don't believe everything you are told.

It's a *linear* problem already.  You should be able to solve
it on the back of a very small envelope.

For starters, you should be able to figure out the asymptotic
behavior.  You should be able to figure this out in your head,
in less time than it takes to talk about it.

> which is
> interesting because it's a simple circuit that could be wired up and
> tested...which we're doing now.
>
> http://www.phy.mtu.edu/~suits/PH2260/CapProblem.pdf

1) Your components will last longer if you put some resistance
in series with the switches.  This will not affect the outcome,
if you allow things to settle for a time long compared to RC.

2) You should be able to do the mathematical analysis in less
time than it takes to build the circuit.  Nothing more than
high-school algebra is required.