Step 1: Concept
When capacitors are connected in series, the equivalent capacitance \(C_{eq}\) is given by the formula:
\[\frac{1}{C_{eq}} = \frac{1}{C_1} + \frac{1}{C_2} + \cdots + \frac{1}{C_n}\]
where \(C_1, C_2, \ldots, C_n\) are the capacitances of individual capacitors.
Step 2: Meaning
This formula means that the reciprocal of the equivalent capacitance is equal to the sum of the reciprocals of each individual capacitor's capacitance. In a series connection, the total charge stored in all capacitors must be the same, but the voltage across each capacitor will differ according to its capacitance.
Step 3: Analysis
Given three capacitors with capacitances \(3\ \mu\text{F}\), \(3\ \mu\text{F}\), and \(3\ \mu\text{F}\) connected in series:
1. The reciprocal of each capacitor's capacitance is:
\[\frac{1}{3} = 0.3333\ \mu\text{F}^{-1}\]
2. Summing these reciprocals gives the total reciprocal of the equivalent capacitance:
\[\frac{1}{C_{eq}} = 0.3333 + 0.3333 + 0.3333 = 1\ \mu\text{F}^{-1}\]
3. Therefore, the equivalent capacitance \(C_{eq}\) is:
\[C_{eq} = \frac{1}{1} = 1\ \mu\text{F}\]
Step 4: Conclusion
The equivalent capacitance of three capacitors each with a capacitance of \(3\ \mu\text{F}\) connected in series is \(1\ \mu\text{F}\).
Final Answer: (A)