Chapter 24, Problem 48PCE

Predict/Explain (a) When the ac generator in Figure 24-35 operates at high frequency is the rms current in the circuit greater than, less than, or the same as when the generator operates at low frequency? (b) Choose the best explanation from among the following:

1. I.                    The capacitor has no resistance, and therefore the resistance of the circuit is the same at all frequencies. As a result the current is the same at all frequencies.
2. II.                 Less current flows at high frequency because in that limit the capacitor is like an open circuit and current has only one path to flow through.
3. III.              More current flows at high frequency because in that limit the capacitor is like a short circuit and current has two parallel paths to flow through.