It isn't.Scholar1 said:
A capacitor is a passive electronic component that stores electrical energy in an electric field. It consists of two conductive plates separated by an insulating material known as a dielectric.
A capacitor works by accumulating and storing electrical charge on its plates. When a voltage is applied to the capacitor, an electric field is created between the plates, causing one plate to accumulate positive charge and the other to accumulate negative charge. As long as the voltage remains constant, the capacitor will continue to store the charge.
The purpose of a capacitor in a circuit is to store electrical energy and release it when needed. It can act as a temporary power source, smoothing out voltage fluctuations and filtering out unwanted electrical signals. Capacitors are commonly used in electronic circuits to stabilize power supply voltages, block DC voltage while allowing AC signals to pass, and store electrical energy for later use.
There are several types of capacitors, including ceramic, electrolytic, film, and variable capacitors. Ceramic capacitors are small, inexpensive, and commonly used in high-frequency applications. Electrolytic capacitors have a larger capacitance and are often used in power supply circuits. Film capacitors are known for their stability and are used in precision applications. Variable capacitors have a variable capacitance and are used for tuning circuits.
Capacitors can store a significant amount of electrical energy and can be dangerous if handled improperly. Always discharge capacitors before working on them to avoid electric shock. Use personal protective equipment, such as gloves and safety glasses, when handling large capacitors. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and ratings when selecting and using capacitors in a circuit.