Parallel connection rule: Do capacitors connected in parallel produce a total capacitance greater than any individual capacitor in the group (i.e., they add algebraically)?

Introduction / Context:
Combining capacitors allows designers to achieve target values and performance. In parallel, plate areas effectively add, increasing the ability to store charge per volt. Understanding series versus parallel rules prevents design and troubleshooting mistakes in filters, timing networks, and decoupling arrays.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Ideal capacitors, negligible parasitics for first-order rules.
• Two or more capacitors connected in parallel across the same nodes.
• Same voltage across all elements.

Concept / Approach:
For parallel capacitors, the equivalent capacitance is C_eq = C1 + C2 + ... + Cn. Because the sum of positive values exceeds each individual value, C_eq is greater than any single capacitor. This contrasts with series connection, where charges equalize and 1 / C_eq = 1 / C1 + 1 / C2 + ... leading to a smaller equivalent than the smallest element.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Bench measurements with an LCR meter confirm that paralleling parts sums their capacitances within tolerances; designers often parallel different dielectrics to broaden frequency performance.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting voltage rating limits when paralleling; neglecting ESR/ESL which influence high-frequency behavior though not the DC-value sum.

Final Answer:
Correct