Question

Two identical capacitors are connected in series, and the combination is connected with a battery, as shown. Some changes in capacitor $1$ are now made independently after the steady state is achieved as listed in column I. Some effects that may occur in the new steady state due to these changes on capacitor $2$ are listed in column II. Match the changes on capacitor I in column I with the corresponding effect on capacitor $2$ in column II :

Answer 1

a. By inserting dielectric slab, capacitance of 1 increases thereby increasing charge on capacitor. Thus, more charge flows through the battery. Energy stored in capacitor also increases.
b. By increasing separation between the plates, capacitance of $C_1$ decreases. Charge on $C_2$ also decreases.
c. By shorting capacitor 1, only capacitor 2 remains in the circuit. Potential difference across $C_2$ increases, therby increasing charge on 2 as well as energy stored.
d. By earthing plate of capacitor 1, potentials will change but there will be no change potential difference, making no overall change in the circuit.