Capacitors in Series vs. Parallel: Key Differences Explained

This page delves into the comparison between capacitors configured in series and capacitors arranged in parallel. We’ll explore the key differences and how these configurations impact overall capacitance and circuit behavior.

Capacitors in Series

When capacitors are connected in series, as illustrated in the figure, the following relationships hold true:

• Total Capacitance: For two capacitors in series, the total capacitance is calculated as:

  • 1/C = 1/C1 + 1/C2

  • Total capacitance, C= C1*C2/C1+C2

  • For multiple capacitors in series: (1/C) = (1/C1) + (1/C2) + … + (1/Cn)

• SI Unit: The standard unit for capacitance is the Farad (F). Capacitance is also commonly measured in microfarads (µF), nanofarads (nF), and picofarads (pF).

Capacitors in Parallel

In a parallel configuration, where capacitors are connected side-by-side, the following applies:

• Total Capacitance: For two capacitors in parallel, the total capacitance is simply the sum of the individual capacitances:

  • C = C1 + C2

• Voltage and Charge: While the voltage is the same across all capacitors in parallel, the charge stored on each capacitor can be different.

  • For multiple capacitors in parallel, total capacitance: C = C1 + C2 + … + Cn

Capacitors in series and parallel configurations are employed based on the specific requirements of the electronic circuit design.

Capacitors in Series vs. Parallel: A Summary

The table below highlights the key differences between these two configurations:

Circuit Type	Capacitors in Series	Capacitors in Parallel
Schematic Diagram
Charge/Voltage	V = V1 + V2 + V3 +… V = Q/C1 + Q/C2 + Q/C3 +… V = Q (1/C1 + 1/C2 +1/C3 + …) V = Q/C eq	Q = Q1 + Q2 + Q3 … = Sum of charges Q = C1V + C2V + C3V + …
Equivalent Capacitance	1/C eq = 1/C1 + 1/C2 + 1/C3 … = reciprocal sum of individual capacitances	C eq = C1 + C2 + C3 … = Sum of individual capacitances