Understanding Capacitors: A Deep Dive

What is the primary function of a capacitor in an electrical circuit?

• To convert AC to DC

• To smooth out power supply interruptions

• To regulate voltage

• To increase energy storage

What analogy is used to explain the function of a capacitor?

• A valve

• A pressure gauge

• A water tank

• A battery

What happens when a capacitor is connected to a battery?

• It converts AC to DC

• It immediately discharges

• Electrons build up creating a voltage difference

• It reduces the circuit's overall power

What material is typically used as a dielectric in capacitors?

• Plastic

• Copper

• Aluminum

• Ceramic

What does the stripe on a capacitor indicate?

• Capacitance value

• Negative terminal

• Positive terminal

• Maximum voltage

What is a common application of capacitors in large buildings?

• Lighting control

• Power factor correction

• Temperature regulation

• Security systems

What could happen if the voltage across a capacitor exceeds its maximum rating?

• It will discharge slowly

• It will stop functioning

• It will explode

• It will convert AC to DC

Why are capacitors used in AC to DC power conversion?

• To increase efficiency

• To reduce costs

• To store extra energy

• To smooth out power supply

How can you safely check the voltage stored in a capacitor?

• By using a standard voltmeter

• By discharging it through a resistor

• By connecting it to a battery

• By observing its physical size

What unit is capacitance measured in?

• Farads

• Watts

• Volts

• Ohms