Which configuration leads to higher total capacitance: series or parallel?

• A. Series
• B. Parallel
• C. Both yield the same capacitance
• D. None; it depends on the capacitor type

Answer: (B)

The configuration that leads to higher total capacitance is the parallel arrangement. When capacitors are connected in parallel, the total capacitance is the sum of the individual capacitances. This arrangement allows for each capacitor to contribute its capacitance to the total, effectively increasing the overall capacitance available in the circuit.

In a parallel configuration, the voltage across each capacitor is the same, and the charges add up, which results in a larger total stored charge per unit voltage. This results in a higher capacitance compared to capacitors arranged in series.

In contrast, when capacitors are connected in series, the total capacitance is determined by the reciprocal of the sum of the reciprocals of the individual capacitances. This is inherently a reduction in the total capacitance because the series connection restricts the total amount of charge that can be stored across all capacitors.

Thus, the parallel configuration clearly allows for a higher total capacitance, making it the correct choice.