Learning Path
Question & Answer1
Understand Question2
Review Options3
Learn Explanation4
Explore TopicChoose the Best Answer
A
The energy is released as heat in the resistor, demonstrating energy dissipation.
B
The energy is converted entirely into light, causing a spark.
C
The energy remains stored indefinitely until the capacitor is recharged.
D
The energy flows back into the capacitor, increasing its charge.
Understanding the Answer
Let's break down why this is correct
Answer
When a charged capacitor is connected to a resistor it begins to discharge, and the electric field inside the capacitor collapses. The energy that was stored in that field is transferred to the resistor as electrical current, and the resistor turns that energy into heat. In a simple example, a 10‑volt, 100 µF capacitor holds 0. 5 × 100 µF × (10 V)² = 0. 005 joules; when it discharges through a 1 kΩ resistor, that 0.
Detailed Explanation
A capacitor keeps electric energy stored while it is charged. Other options are incorrect because Sparks happen only when a very short, low‑resistance path lets a large voltage jump across a tiny gap; One might think the capacitor keeps its energy until someone charges it again.
Key Concepts
Capacitor Discharge
Energy Dissipation
Electrical Resistance
Topic
Dielectric Charge Flow
Difficulty
medium level question
Cognitive Level
understand
Practice Similar Questions
Test your understanding with related questions
1
Question 1Arrange the following steps in the correct order for discharging a capacitor through a resistor: A) The capacitor is charged, B) The circuit is completed by connecting the resistor, C) The stored energy begins to dissipate, D) The capacitor is fully discharged.
easyPhysics
Practice
2
Question 2What happens to the energy stored in a capacitor when it is discharged through a resistor?
mediumPhysics
Practice
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