In a series capacitive circuit, how is the total voltage calculated?

• A. VT = VC1 + VC2 + VC3
• B. VT = VC1 - VC2 - VC3
• C. VT = VC1 * VC2 * VC3
• D. VT = VC1 / VC2 + VC3

Answer: (A)

The total voltage in a series capacitive circuit is calculated by summing the voltages across each capacitor. When capacitors are arranged in series, the same charge flows through all the capacitors, but the voltage drop across each can vary. Consequently, to find the total voltage across the entire series, it is appropriate to add the individual voltages across each capacitor together. This principle is grounded in Kirchhoff's voltage law, which states that the sum of the voltage drops in a closed loop must equal the total voltage supplied.

In contrast, the other options suggest alternate methods of combining voltages that do not apply to series circuits. Some might imply the use of subtraction, multiplication, or division, which do not reflect the proper behavior of capacitors in series. Thus, summing the individual capacitor voltages provides the correct total voltage for the entire circuit.