Why does the rate of change of potential difference between two capacitor plates decrease as the capacitor discharges?

Current, I, is related to voltage by Ohm's law, I=V/R. As the capacitor discharges, the current will decrease as less charge is "released" from the capacitor. From Ohm's law, we would expect lower currents to result in lower potential differences (assuming a constant resistance), thus as the current decreases, the potential difference also decreases, at an exponential rate.

FT
Answered by Francis T. Physics tutor

10290 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

In terms of the photoelectric effect, what is the work function of a material?


Explain why for heavy nuclei there is imbalance in the number of protons and neutrons. Give reference to the range and particle type of the forces that influence this imbalance.


Steel has a density of 8030kg/m^3. Show that a steel ball with a diameter of 5cm weighs approximately 5N


A linear accelerator (LINAC) is used to accelerate protons at CERN before they are injected into the Large Hadron Collider. Explain with the aid of a diagram how the proton is accelerated by the LINAC.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning