Concepts Of Physics MCQ Edition [Volume 2]
- Exam
- Concepts Of Physics MCQ Edition [Volume 2]
- Subject
- Physics
- Chapter
- Capacitors
Concepts Of Physics MCQ Edition [Volume 2] · Physics · Capacitors
An arrangement consists of three conducting concentric spherical...
An arrangement consists of three conducting concentric spherical shells with radii , , and , as depicted in the figure. The region between the two inner shells is filled by a dielectric of dielectric constant . Determine the capacitance of the system between and .


Options
- A
- B
- C
- D
Correct answer
A.
Step-by-step solution
The given arrangement can be considered as two spherical capacitors connected in series.
The first capacitor is formed by the inner shell of radius and the middle shell of radius . The space between them is filled with a dielectric of constant . Its capacitance is:
The second capacitor is formed by the middle shell of radius and the outer shell of radius . The space between them is vacuum (or air). Its capacitance is:
Since the terminals and are connected to the innermost and outermost shells respectively, and the middle shell is isolated, the two capacitors are in series. The equivalent capacitance is given by:
Substituting the values of and :
Taking the common denominator:
Inverting this expression gives the equivalent capacitance:
The first capacitor is formed by the inner shell of radius and the middle shell of radius . The space between them is filled with a dielectric of constant . Its capacitance is:
The second capacitor is formed by the middle shell of radius and the outer shell of radius . The space between them is vacuum (or air). Its capacitance is:
Since the terminals and are connected to the innermost and outermost shells respectively, and the middle shell is isolated, the two capacitors are in series. The equivalent capacitance is given by:
Substituting the values of and :
Taking the common denominator:
Inverting this expression gives the equivalent capacitance: