Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 2
ELECTROMAGNETISM
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ELECTROMAGNETISM
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Subject: Physics
Class: SHS 2
Term: 2nd Term
Week: 5
Grade code: 2.3.1.LI.5
Strand code: 3
Sub-strand code: 2
Content standard code: 2.3.1.CS.2
Indicator code: 2.3.1.LI.5
Theme: ELECTRIC FIELD, MAGNETIC FIELD AND ELECTRONICS
Subtheme: ELECTROMAGNETISM
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This lesson explores the concept of energy storage in capacitors. We encounter capacitors every day, from the flash in our mobile phones to the power banks we use to charge them, and even in the circuits that prevent our electronics from damage during power fluctuations ('dumsor'). Understanding how these small devices store energy is fundamental to understanding modern electronics. We will move from the basic relationship between charge, voltage, and capacitance to deriving and applying the formulas for calculating the electrical potential energy stored.
Part 1: Recap - What is a Capacitor and Capacitance?
A capacitor is an electronic component that stores electrical energy in an electric field. It consists of two conductive plates separated by an insulating material called a dielectric.
Think of it like a small, very fast-charging battery. It can store charge and then release it very quickly.
Capacitance (C) is the measure of a capacitor's ability to store charge. It is defined as the ratio of the charge (Q) stored on one plate to the potential difference (V) between the plates. Formula: `C = Q / V` or, more commonly written as `Q = CV` Units: `Q` (Charge) is measured in Coulombs (C). `V` (Potential Difference or Voltage) is measured in Volts (V). `C` (Capacitance) is measured in Farads (F).