Final answer:
When the dielectric of a capacitor is broken down, it becomes ionized and can conduct electricity. This is called dielectric breakdown. The presence of a dielectric material in a capacitor allows for smaller plate separation and increases its capacitance.
Step-by-step explanation:
When the dielectric of a capacitor is broken down, it becomes ionized and can conduct electricity. This phenomenon is called dielectric breakdown. A dielectric material is an insulating material that becomes polarized in an electric field. It allows for smaller plate separation in a capacitor, increasing its capacitance and allowing more charge and potential energy to be stored.
When the dielectric of a capacitor is broken down, it becomes ionized and can conduct electricity. This is called dielectric breakdown. The presence of a dielectric material in a capacitor allows for smaller plate separation and increases its capacitance.