Understanding Maximum Current Draw from a 5000mF Capacitor

When dealing with a 5000mF (or 5F) capacitor charged to 12V, determining the maximum current that can be drawn requires understanding both the capacitance and the rate of voltage change.

Key Formulas and Concepts

The current (I) through a capacitor is described by the formula:

I C * (dV/dt)

Where:

I is the current in amperes (A) C is the capacitance in farads (F) dV/dt is the rate of voltage change over time in volts per second (V/s)

This formula helps us understand how the current changes based on the rate at which the voltage across the capacitor drops.

Calculating Maximum Current

Let's consider a practical example where we want to discharge the capacitor as quickly as possible within 1 second:

Assume a voltage drop of 12V to 0V in 1 second. Calculate the rate of change of voltage (dV/dt): dV/dt (0V - 12V) / 1s -12 V/s Substitute into the formula to find the current (I): I 5F * -12V/s -60A

The negative sign indicates the direction of current flow, but the magnitude of the maximum current you can theoretically draw from the capacitor in this scenario is 60A.

Practical Considerations

Discharge Rate: In a real circuit, the actual current drawn will be influenced by the load and the resistance in the circuit. High currents can cause heating and may damage the capacitor or other components.

Capacitor Ratings: Ensure that the capacitor is rated for the current you intend to draw. Exceeding the rating can lead to failure.

Load Resistance: If you have a specific load connected, the maximum current will depend on the load resistance, as described by Ohm's Law (I V/R).

If you have specific parameters for how quickly you want to discharge the capacitor or the load you intend to connect, let me know, and I can help refine the calculation!

High Current Capacitors and Applications

Capacitors are capable of delivering high currents, making them useful in various applications. One notable example is the high current discharge capability required for specific industrial and research applications.

Another intriguing application involves the use of capacitors in conjunction with explosive destruction of coil systems to shrink objects. This phenomenon, termed quarter shrinking, showcases the extreme energy release that can occur during high-capacitance discharges.

For more information on quarter shrinking, you can refer to sources like the reconstructed history of quarter shrinking. Note that the energy required to shrink a quarter is significant.

By 5000mF (5F) does likely indicate a super capacitor. While it can provide high current, it is insufficient for shrinking a quarter due to its limited energy density.