Summary
The change in the electrical potential energy of a charge is defined by ∆UE =
−WE. Essentially this is the same equation that defines a change in the
gravitational potential energy.
Electric potential is electric potential energy per unit charge. The units of
electric potential are joules per coulomb. The change in electric potential, ∆V,
is defined as.
Capacitance is a measure of the capacity for holding charge. The greater the
capacitance, the more charge can be stored on the plates at a given potential
difference.
Combinations of capacitors are often seen in electric circuits. A collection of
capacitors is parallel if the capacitors all share the same potential difference.
A collection of capacitors is in a series if they all share the same charge
magnitude.
Dielectrics are insulators that are placed between the plates of a capacitor so
that the capacitor can maintain charge separation and store potential energy. A
dielectric always increases the capacitance of a capacitor.
