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RC Time Constant Visualization

How to Use

  • Drag the R and C sliders to change component values
  • Observe how the time constant τ = RC updates and the curve shifts left or right
  • Multiple curves are overlaid so you can compare different τ values side by side

What to Observe

  • Shape invariance: the normalized curve shape never changes — only the time scale stretches or compresses
  • 63.2% rule: the voltage always reaches 63.2% of its final value after exactly one time constant
  • 5τ rule: the response is within 1% of final value after five time constants, regardless of R or C individually
  • Proportionality: doubling R or doubling C doubles τ and stretches the curve by the same factor