Chapter 6.3, Problem 2aT

Suppose an uncharged capacitor is connected in series with a battery and bulb as shown.

1. Predict the behavior of the bulb when the switch is closed. Explain.

Set up the circuit and check your prediction. If your prediction is in conflict with your observation, how can you account for your observation?

2. Without using a voltmeter, determine the potential difference across the capacitor at the following times:

• just after the switch is closed. Explain how you can tell. (Hint: Compare the brightness of the bulb to the brightness of a bulb connected to a battery in a single-bulb circuit without a capacitor.)

• a long time after the switch is closed. Explain how you can tell.

Use a voltmeter to check your predictions. (Hint: Be sure to discharge the capacitor completely after each observation.)