Capacitors: Tiny Devices That Hold Electric Charge

A capacitor stores energy by holding positive and negative charges on two plates.
The plates are separated by an insulating material called a dielectric.
Unlike batteries, capacitors release energy almost instantly.
Their storage ability is measured in farads (F), named after Michael Faraday.
Small capacitors smooth out voltage in circuits, preventing flickers or drops.
Camera flashes use capacitors to dump stored energy in a quick burst of light.
In power supplies, they stabilize current so electronics run smoothly.
Supercapacitors can hold much more charge and recharge in seconds.
The thinner the dielectric and the larger the plates, the more charge a capacitor can store.
From radios to electric cars, capacitors are hidden helpers that keep energy on demand.