A capacitor is a passive electrical component that stores energy in which type of field?

Study for the Junior Officer Surface Material Readiness Course Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

A capacitor is a passive electrical component that stores energy in which type of field?

Explanation:
Energy is stored in the electric field between the capacitor’s plates when it is charged. The separation of positive and negative charges creates an electric field in the dielectric, and the energy resides in that field. This energy is quantified by U = 1/2 C V^2 (or U = 1/2 QV). The magnetic field isn’t the storage mechanism for a capacitor (that’s what inductors rely on), and thermal or mechanical energy aren’t the primary storage modes for a capacitor’s charge.

Energy is stored in the electric field between the capacitor’s plates when it is charged. The separation of positive and negative charges creates an electric field in the dielectric, and the energy resides in that field. This energy is quantified by U = 1/2 C V^2 (or U = 1/2 QV). The magnetic field isn’t the storage mechanism for a capacitor (that’s what inductors rely on), and thermal or mechanical energy aren’t the primary storage modes for a capacitor’s charge.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy