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Bench reference · 254 terms

Words worth knowing

Start with the plain-language meaning, then reach for the technical definition when you need precision.

Showing 1 term

Capacitance

Also: electric capacitance

Link to term
In plain language

A measure of stored charge per volt between conductors.

Technical definition

For an ideal capacitor q = Cv and i = C dv/dt; geometry and dielectric determine C.

Units
farad (F = C/V)
Formula
C = q/V; i = C dv/dt

Example A 100 µF capacitor changing by 1 V changes stored charge by 100 µC.

Common misconception A capacitor does not pass steady DC current indefinitely in the ideal model.