The values of the emf ℰ, resistance R, and the capacitance C for each of the circuits are
circuit 1: ℰ = 18 V, R = 3 , C = 1
F
circuit 2: ℰ = 18 V, R = 6 , C = 9
F
circuit 3: ℰ = 12 V, R = 1 , C = 7
F
circuit 4: ℰ = 10 V, R = 5 , C = 7
F
Rank the circuits according to the time after switch S is closed for the capacitors to reach half
their final charges, least to greatest.
A) 1, 2, 3, 4
B) 2, 4, 3, 1
C) 1, 3, 4, 2
D) 4, 2, 1, 3
E) 3, 1, 2, 4
72. In the circuit shown, both resistors have the same value R. Suppose switch S is initially
closed and capacitor C is charged. When switch S is then opened, the circuit has a time constant
a. Conversely, suppose S is initially open and capacitor C is uncharged. When switch S is then
closed, the circuit has a time constant b. The ratio a/b is:
A) 0.5
B) 0.67
C) 1
D) 1.5
E) 2