Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
An RC circuit consists of a resistor (R) and a capacitor (C) connected in series or parallel. It is fundamental in analyzing transient responses in circuits.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
The time constant, $\tau$, of an RC circuit is given by $\tau = RC$.
In a charging RC circuit, the voltage across the capacitor asymptotically approaches the supply voltage following $V(t) = V_{max}(1 - e^{-t/RC})$.
In a discharging RC circuit, the voltage across the capacitor decreases exponentially following $V(t) = V_0 e^{-t/RC}$.
The steady-state current in an RC circuit with DC supply eventually becomes zero as the capacitor fully charges.
Kirchhoff's Voltage Law (KVL) applies to RC circuits, ensuring the sum of voltages around any closed loop equals zero.