RC as an AC/DC Filter

by Alejandro Pinero

Submitted : Fall 2011

RC circuits have many applications in the modern world. In this project the behavior of a basic RC circuit acting as an AC/DC filter was solved using fundamental Calculus skills allowing for a graphical view of an Alternating current in a circuit over a period of time.  I approached the formulas that govern a circuit for this experiment along with data provided by implementing both the Euler method and a first order linear differential equation solution method. Both provide the same statistical data, the differential equation approach however is slightly more precise. Once the mathematical portion was completed, the data demonstrated the behavior of the circuit. The voltage of the capacitor fluctuated over time in accordance with the electromotive force being provided. The resistor voltage at the same time regulated the amount of flow of energy been allowed to pass through the circuit. The sinusoidal nature of alternating currents resulted in the alternating positive and negative voltage the resistor allowed to pass through and varying levels in the voltage of the capacitor as energy was being stored and discharged.

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