Question

Which of the following statements about capacitors and their testing is accurate?

Option 1: Smaller value capacitors charge more slowly.
Option 2: Very small capacitors read zero resistance.
Option 3: Any capacitor that produces a reading of under one megohm after it's charged is considered faulty and should be replaced.
Option 4: When testing a capacitor with a meter, it should be tested within its circuit to obtain accurate readings.

Answer 1

In summary, smaller value capacitors charge faster, not slower, and when a capacitor is tested for resistance, it should normally increase to resemble an open circuit if working correctly. Capacitors generally viewed as faulty if they can't hold high resistance, and they should be tested out of circuit for accurate readings.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question pertains to the properties and testing of capacitors in electrical circuits. Firstly, it's important to clarify that Option 1 is incorrect because smaller value capacitors actually charge faster, not more slowly, due to having less capacity to fill with charge. Regarding Option 2, very small capacitors can read a very low resistance on a meter initially, but this resistance should increase as the capacitor charges, eventually resembling an open circuit rather than maintaining zero resistance. If they perpetually show near zero resistance, they might be faulty or shorted. Option 3 is a rule of thumb that depends on the type of capacitor and the context of its use, but it is generally accurate that capacitors which cannot hold a high resistance (e.g., under one megohm) may be considered faulty as they are likely leaking charge. Finally, Option 4 is inaccurate; capacitors should be tested out of the circuit to prevent readings from being affected by the rest of the circuit and to isolate the capacitor's true behavior.