Capacitor
Definition
A capacitor is an electronic component that stores electrical energy in the form of an electric field. It consists of two conductive plates separated by a dielectric material.
Related terms
Dielectric: A dielectric is an insulating material placed between the plates of a capacitor to increase its capacitance.
Charging: Charging refers to the process of storing electrical energy in a capacitor by applying voltage across its terminals.
Discharging: Discharging is the release of stored electrical energy from a capacitor, usually when connected to a circuit.
"Capacitor" appears in:
Subjects (1)
AP Physics C: E&M
Study guides (1)
AP Physics 2 - 4.3 Resistance and Capacitance
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Resources
Cram Mode
AP Score Calculators
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Glossary
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Crisis Text Line
Help Center
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.