Capacitor
Definition
A capacitor is an electronic component that stores and releases electrical energy. It consists of two conductive plates separated by an insulating material, known as a dielectric.
Analogy
Think of a capacitor like a rechargeable battery. When you connect it to a power source, it charges up with electrical energy. Then, when you disconnect the power source, it can release that stored energy later on.
Related terms
Electric Field: The region around a charged object where electric forces are exerted on other charged objects.
Dielectric Constant: A measure of how well an insulating material can store electrical energy in a capacitor.
Charging and Discharging: The processes of storing and releasing electrical energy in a capacitor.
"Capacitor" appears in:
Subjects (1)
Study guides (3)
Additional resources (1)
Resources
© 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.