Capacitor Calculator – Guide & Formulas
Determine equivalent capacitance (uF), stored charge (uC), and electrical energy (Joules) for series and parallel capacitor arrangements.
Analyze capacitive electronic circuits. Select series or parallel configuration and input up to three capacitor microfarad ratings alongside voltage levels to instantly compute total storage parameters.
Key Takeaway
Use the free Capacitor Calculator to determine equivalent capacitance (uf), stored charge (uc), and electrical energy (joules) for series and parallel capacitor arrangements. Get instant results with step-by-step explanations.
How to Use the Capacitor Calculator
- Select network configuration: Parallel or Series.
- Enter the individual microfarad (µF) ratings of your capacitors.
- Input the active DC voltage applied to the circuit.
- Read total equivalent capacitance, stored charge, and electrostatic energy.
The Formula
Variable Definitions
- C_total: The net equivalent system capacitance in microfarads (µF)
- Energy: Electrostatic work energy stored inside dielectric fields (0.5 * C * V^2)
Combining Three Capacitors in Series
Find equivalent capacitance for 100 µF, 220 µF, and 47 µF capacitors connected in series under a 24V source.
- Step 1: Invert individual values: 1/100 = 0.010, 1/220 ≈ 0.0045, 1/47 ≈ 0.0213.
- Step 2: Sum inverses: 0.010 + 0.0045 + 0.0213 = 0.0358.
- Step 3: Solve equivalent capacitance: 1 / 0.0358 ≈ 27.94 µF.
- Step 4: Stored Energy: 0.5 * (27.94 * 10^-6 F) * 24^2 V^2 ≈ 0.0080 Joules.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does energy storage scale with voltage?
Electrostatic energy scales quadratically with voltage (V^2), meaning doubling source voltage quadruples total stored energy in the same capacitor bank.
Why do capacitors block DC but pass AC?
DC current accumulates charges on the plates until full, stopping current flow. AC periodically reverses polarity, allowing continuous charging and discharging cycles.