Units – Identify the correct SI unit of capacitance Statement: “The ohm is the unit of capacitance.” Mark the correct evaluation.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: False

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Unit clarity prevents misinterpretation of datasheets and calculations. Capacitance, resistance, and reactance have distinct SI units and symbols that must not be confused in design and testing.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • SI units are used: farad (F) for capacitance, ohm (Ω) for resistance, henry (H) for inductance.
  • Capacitive reactance Xc = 1/(ωC) is measured in ohms but represents opposition to AC, not capacitance.
  • No special unit systems assumed.


Concept / Approach:

Capacitance is defined as C = Q/V (coulombs per volt). The SI unit is the farad (F). Resistance is measured in ohms (Ω), and while capacitive reactance has units of ohms, that does not make “ohm” a unit of capacitance. Hence the statement is false.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Recall definitions: C = Q/V → unit F.Resistance R uses V = I * R → unit Ω.Capacitive reactance Xc = 1/(ωC) has unit Ω but is not a unit of C.


Verification / Alternative check:

Check dimensional analysis: [F] = s^4 * A^2 / (m^2 * kg) in base units; [Ω] = kg * m^2 / (s^3 * A^2). They are not dimensionally equivalent.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

No commonly used unit system assigns “ohm” to capacitance; electrolytic capacitors still use farads (often µF, mF). Reactance being in ohms does not redefine the unit of C.



Common Pitfalls:

Confusing reactance with capacitance; using Ω when a datasheet requires F, resulting in design errors.



Final Answer:

False.

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