Question 1

What is capacitance?

Accepted Answer

Capacitance is the ability of a capacitor to store electrical charge. It is measured in farads (F) and represents the ratio of stored charge to applied voltage.

Question 2

How does dielectric constant affect capacitance?

Accepted Answer

Dielectric constant (εᵣ) increases capacitance by reducing the electric field between capacitor plates. Higher dielectric constants allow more charge storage for the same voltage.

Question 3

What are the different types of capacitors?

Accepted Answer

Common capacitor types include parallel plate, spherical, cylindrical, and various commercial types like ceramic, electrolytic, and film capacitors.

Question 4

How is stored energy calculated?

Accepted Answer

Stored energy in a capacitor is calculated as E = ½CV², where C is capacitance and V is voltage. This represents the energy stored in the electric field.

Question 5

What units are used for capacitance?

Accepted Answer

Capacitance is measured in farads (F). Practical capacitors often use microfarads (μF), nanofarads (nF), or picofarads (pF) due to typically small values.

Question 6

Why do capacitors have different shapes?

Accepted Answer

Different capacitor shapes (parallel plate, spherical, cylindrical) are chosen based on the application. Each shape has different electric field characteristics and capacitance formulas.

Question 7

What is dielectric breakdown?

Accepted Answer

Dielectric breakdown occurs when the electric field strength exceeds the dielectric material's limit, causing it to conduct electricity and potentially damage the capacitor.

Question 8

How do I choose the right capacitor for my application?

Accepted Answer

Consider voltage rating, capacitance value, temperature range, size constraints, and cost. Different capacitor types are optimized for different applications.

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