Unit 3: Capacitance

     Capacitors are used in many ways as circuit elements that store charge. You have used capacitors, perhaps without knowing it, when a flash is used to illuminate a photograph or when you open your car door and the interior dome light comes on for a short while as you exit your car. Capacitors can also be used in the keyboard of your computer. As you press a key, changes in capacitance can produce a signal for your computer. As you move through the workflow for this unit you will metaphorically "store" up the concepts just like a capacitor stores charge. Have fun.

Suggested timeframe: 2 weeks

Big Ideas:
1. Capacitors store energy in an electric field.
2. Capacitance is determined by geometrical measurements.
3. Dielectric materials increase capacitance.