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Capacitor networks
Intermediate
Combine series and parallel capacitors.
Reduce step by step using series and parallel rules. For steady DC the capacitors carry no current.
Two in parallel (2 + 3 = 5 μF) in series with 5 μF → 2.5 μF.
Careful: series is reciprocal addition for capacitors.
In more detail
Capacitor networks combine series and parallel rules for capacitance. Series capacitors combine as reciprocals, and parallel capacitors add directly, just as for resistors but in reverse.
Real-world uses
- Designing tuning and filter networks with specific capacitance values.
- Circuit simulators compute equivalent capacitances in networks.
- Engineers combine capacitors in series and parallel to give the total capacitance needed in a filter or timing circuit.
Open the interactive lesson, with simulation and quiz →
Frequently asked questions
Is it the same as resistors?
It is reversed: capacitors in series behave like resistors in parallel, and vice versa.
Why do capacitors in series divide voltage?
Because each holds the same charge, so the smaller capacitance has the larger voltage.
How do I start a capacitor network problem?
Find the parts that are clearly in series or parallel, combine them step by step, and then combine the result with the rest.
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