Question Detail

PHY 102 Current Electricity Objective Question

Question

In a charging RC circuit, what fraction of the initial current (I₀) is flowing after one time constant (τ)?
Options
A Approximately 36%
Correct Answer
B Approximately 50%
C Approximately 64%
D Approximately 100%
Correct Answer

Option A is the correct answer.

Detailed Explanation

Page 21 states that after one time constant, the 'Current drops to 1/e of initial value (about 36%)'. Mathematically, at t = τ, i(τ) = I₀ e⁻¹ ≈ I₀ * 0.3678.

Hint

Use the formula i(t) = I₀ e⁻ᵗ/ᴿᶜ and substitute t = τ.

Question Info