Question
For the given circuit, determine the correct descending order of time constants.
Given:
- (a) Vsupply = 250 V, C = 3 μF
- (b) Vsupply = 150 V, C = 1 μF
- (c) Vsupply = 100 V, C = 2 μF
- (d) Vsupply = 250 V, C = 6 μF
- (e) Vsupply = 80 V, C = 0.5 μF
Options:
- A. (a), (c), (b), (e), (d)
- B. (c), (e), (a), (b), (d)
- C. (b), (d), (a), (c), (e)
- D. (d), (a), (c), (b), (e)
Solution
Step 1: Formula
Time constant is given by:
Ï„ = Rth × C
Step 2: Find Thevenin Resistance
Deactivate the voltage source (replace with short circuit).
Compute equivalent resistance:
- 30kΩ || 70kΩ = (30 × 70) / (30 + 70) = 21kΩ
- 9kΩ + 21kΩ = 30kΩ
- 20kΩ || 30kΩ = (20 × 30) / (20 + 30) = 12kΩ
- Total: Rth = 8kΩ + 12kΩ = 20kΩ
Step 3: Compare Time Constants
Since Rth is same for all cases, Ï„ ∝ C
| Case | Capacitance (μF) | Time Constant Order |
|---|---|---|
| (d) | 6 | Largest |
| (a) | 3 | |
| (c) | 2 | |
| (b) | 1 | |
| (e) | 0.5 | Smallest |
Final Answer
(d), (a), (c), (b), (e)
Option D
