Final answer:
The energy will increase by a factor of 5.0 in C) 3 time constants.
This correct answer is C)
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine how long it takes for the energy to increase by a factor of 5.0 from the initial value, we need to understand the concept of time constants in circuits. In this case, the correct option is C) 3 time constants.
A time constant is a measure of how quickly a capacitor charges or discharges. It is given by the formula t = RC, where R is the resistance and C is the capacitance. Each time constant corresponds to a charging or discharging time of approximately 63.2%.
Since the factor of increase is 5.0, we need the energy to increase to 5 times its initial value. This requires 3 time constants, as each time constant corresponds to an increase of approximately 63.2%. Therefore, the correct answer is C) 3 time constants.
This correct answer is C)