Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: Correct
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:Knowing how total capacitance compares to individual branch values helps validate designs quickly. In parallel, capacitances add directly, so the total must exceed each individual branch value.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:Parallel rule: CT = C1 + C2 + … + Cn. Since each Ci ≥ 0, CT ≥ any Ci, with strict inequality if at least one additional capacitor is present besides C4.
Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Write CT = C4 + Σ(other Ci).2) If any other Ci > 0, then CT > C4.3) Conclude the statement is correct for a genuine parallel group.4) Use this as a quick plausibility check after calculations.Verification / Alternative check:Example: C4 = 10 µF in parallel with 2.2 µF → CT = 12.2 µF > 10 µF.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Identical/AC/ESR caveats are unnecessary for the ideal addition rule; ESR affects losses, not the ideal capacitance sum.Common Pitfalls:Confusing series vs parallel behavior; in series, the total is less than the smallest element, which is the opposite trend.
Final Answer:Correct
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