Why is series capacitance smaller?

Each capacitor drops part of the voltage, reducing the effective charge stored per volt.

When would I use series capacitors?

To increase voltage rating (each cap handles part of the voltage) or to get non-standard values.

Equal capacitors in series?

C_total = C/2 for two equal caps. Each cap sees half the voltage.

Series Capacitor Calculator

Calculate the total capacitance of two capacitors connected in series.

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Capacitor C1

µF

Capacitor C2

µF

Total Capacitance

6.875 µF

Total Capacitance vs Capacitor C1

View formula & how it works →

Series Capacitors

1/C_total = 1/C1 + 1/C2

Series capacitance is always less than the smallest individual value (opposite of parallel).

Example Calculation

10 uF and 22 uF in series.

011/C = 1/10 + 1/22 = 0.1 + 0.04545 = 0.14545
02C_total = 1 / 0.14545 = 6.875 uF

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Ohm's Law Guide

A complete guide to Ohm's Law. Learn the relationship between voltage, current, and resistance, with practical examples, the power triangle, and circuit analysis tips.

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