Question

In an electric or electronic circuit, a capacitor opposes voltage changes across its terminals or leads. What is the primary function of a capacitor in a circuit?

Option 1: Stores and releases electrical energy.
Option 2: Amplifies the current.
Option 3: Regulates the voltage supply.
Option 4: Provides resistance to the flow of electrons.

Answer 1

The primary function of a capacitor in a circuit is to store and release electrical energy. It can also act as a filter to remove noise from electrical signals.

Step-by-step explanation:

A capacitor is a device used to store electric charge. It consists of two conducting plates separated by a dielectric material. When battery terminals are connected to an initially uncharged capacitor, equal amounts of positive and negative charge are separated into its two plates, resulting in the capacitor storing a charge.

The primary function of a capacitor in a circuit is to store and release electrical energy. It acts as a reservoir for charge and can be used to power circuits while batteries are being charged. Additionally, capacitors can serve as filters by filtering out noise and allowing certain electrical signals to pass through.