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Class 4 (4th Engineer) MET 📅 Dec 2024

Exam Question

(a) Describe in detail the method used to measure the capacitance of a capacitor. (6)

(b) A circuit has a resistance of 3Ω and an inductance of 0.01 H. The voltage across its ends is 60V and the frequency is 50Hz. Calculate: (10)

(i) The impedance

(ii) The power factor

(iii) The power absorbed

Reference Answer

### (a) Detailed Method for Measuring Capacitance of a Capacitor
The capacitance of a capacitor, a fundamental electrical component, is its ability to store an electrical charge. Accurate measurement of capacitance is crucial for circuit design, troubleshooting, and quality control. While various sophisticated bridge methods (e.g., Schering Bridge) exist for high-precision laboratory measurements, a common and practical method for general industrial and educational purposes, especially for AC circuits, is the **AC Voltmeter-Ammeter Method**.
#### **Concept:**
This method relies on the principle of capacitive reactance ($$ X_C $$). When an alternating current (AC) flows through a capacitor, the capacitor opposes the change in voltage, leading to a phenomenon known as capacitive reactance. This reactance is inversely proportional to the frequency (f) of the AC source and the capacitance (C) of the capacitor. By measuring the voltage across the capacitor (V), the current flowing through it (I), and the frequency of the AC source, the capacitive reactance can be determined, which then allows for the calculation of capacitance.

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