RC time constant
Time constant and capacitor voltage during ideal charging or discharging.
Inputs
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Results
- Time constant
- 0.1 s
- 5τ
- 0.5 s
- Capacitor voltage
- 15.1708934 V
At 5τ, charge is approximately 99.3%. Five time constants do not mean a capacitor is safe.
Formula & guidance
τ=RC; charging: V=Vs(1−exp(−t/τ))
At 5τ, charge is approximately 99.3%. Five time constants do not mean a capacitor is safe.
Change the example inputs and check each field’s units. Use equipment datasheets and applicable project standards for final decisions. Results do not establish Canadian electrical-code compliance or certify a design.