Final answer:
The dielectric constant (εr) for various dielectrics is always larger than unity, which means it measures how much a material increases the capacitance of a capacitor compared to a vacuum.
Step-by-step explanation:
The value of the dielectric constant (εr), also known as the relative permittivity, for various dielectrics is always C. Larger than unity. The dielectric constant is a measure of how much a material can increase the capacitance of a capacitor compared to the capacitor's capacitance in a vacuum, which has a dielectric constant of exactly 1.
Hence, by definition, the dielectric constant for any material other than a perfect vacuum will be greater than 1. This is because the presence of a dielectric material reduces the electric field within the material, thereby increasing the capacitance. For example, the use of a dielectric material with a high dielectric constant in a parallel plate capacitor can significantly increase the capacitance.