Final answer:
The energy stored in a capacitor is calculated using the formula Ecap = 1/2 CV², where 'C' is the capacitance and 'V' is the voltage. Energy is measured in joules, and the formula indicates the electrical potential energy in the capacitor.
Step-by-step explanation:
The energy stored in a capacitor can be calculated using the formula Ecap = ½ CV², where:
This formula derives from the concept that the energy (in joules) is the total work needed to charge the capacitor, which is the electrical potential energy stored in it. When you have the charge (Q) in coulombs and the voltage (V), another formula that can be used is Ecap = QV/2. Both formulas will give you the energy in joules.