All Flashcards
In the Dielectric Polarization diagram, what does the alignment of molecules in the dielectric create?
A layer of opposite charge on the surface.
In the Dielectric Polarization diagram, what happens to the electric field lines within the dielectric?
Some field lines end on the charges within the dielectric, weakening the overall electric field.
In the Cylindrical Capacitor diagram, what is the charge on the inner cylinder?
+Q
In the Cylindrical Capacitor diagram, what is the charge on the outer cylinder?
-Q
In the Cylindrical Capacitor diagram, what fills the space between the cylinders?
Oil with a dielectric constant k.
Define 'dielectric'.
An insulating material that increases capacitance when inserted into a capacitor, allowing more charge to be stored at the same voltage.
What is the dielectric constant (k)?
A value representing how much a material can be polarized; the higher the k, the more it boosts capacitance.
Define 'polarization' in the context of dielectrics.
The alignment of molecules within a dielectric material when placed in an electric field, creating a layer of opposite charge on the surface.
What is ?
Capacitance without the dielectric.
What is the dielectric constant of a vacuum?
1
What is the effect of polarization on the electric field?
The overall electric field between the plates is weaker than if there were a vacuum.
Compare the electric field with and without a dielectric.
Without dielectric: Stronger electric field. | With dielectric: Weaker electric field due to polarization.
Compare the capacitance with and without a dielectric.
Without dielectric (): Lower capacitance. | With dielectric (): Higher capacitance.
Compare the potential difference with and without a dielectric (capacitor disconnected from battery).
Without dielectric: Higher potential difference. | With dielectric: Lower potential difference.
Compare the energy stored with and without a dielectric (capacitor disconnected from battery).
Without dielectric: Higher energy stored. | With dielectric: Lower energy stored.
Compare the electric field induced within the dielectric vs. the overall electric field between the plates.
Induced electric field: Reduces the overall field. | Overall electric field: Determines the voltage and capacitance.