Why are the plates in a typical parallel-plate capacitor arranged parallel to each other?

• A. To ensure a uniform $E$lectric field between the plates, which maximizes $C$apacitance and allows for predictable behavior.
• B. To prevent any $E$lectric field from forming between the plates.
• C. To minimize the distance between the plates so that the $V$oltage across the capacitor is always zero.
• D. To allow the plates to store $B$agnetic energy instead of $E$lectric energy.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that a parallel-plate capacitor consists of two conductive plates separated by a small distance, and the electric field is created by the charge difference on these plates.
2. Recognize that arranging the plates parallel to each other creates a uniform electric field between them, which means the field lines are straight and evenly spaced.
3. Recall that a uniform electric field leads to a predictable voltage difference and maximizes the capacitance, which is given by the formula \(C = \frac{\epsilon_0 A}{d}\), where \(A\) is the plate area and \(d\) is the separation distance.
4. Note that if the plates were not parallel, the electric field would be non-uniform, causing variations in voltage and reducing the effective capacitance.
5. Conclude that the parallel arrangement is essential to ensure the capacitor stores electric energy efficiently and behaves predictably in circuits.