Difference Between Capacitor and Resistor in Electrical Circuits

When it comes to electrical circuits, capacitors and resistors are two fundamental components that serve different purposes:

Capacitors

A capacitor is a passive electronic component that stores and releases electrical energy in a circuit. It consists of two conductive plates separated by an insulating material known as a dielectric. Capacitors are used to store and regulate electrical charge, filter out noise, and control the flow of current in a circuit.

Resistors

On the other hand, resistors are passive components that limit the flow of current in a circuit. They introduce resistance to the flow of electricity, thereby controlling the amount of current passing through a circuit. Resistors are used to reduce voltage, divide voltage, and limit current flow to protect other components in the circuit.

Main Differences

• Capacitors store and release electrical energy, while resistors limit the flow of current.
• Capacitors are used for energy storage and filtering, while resistors are used for controlling current and voltage levels.
• Capacitors are measured in farads, while resistors are measured in ohms.
• Capacitors respond to changes in voltage, while resistors dissipate energy as heat.

Understanding the differences between capacitors and resistors is crucial for designing effective electrical circuits that operate smoothly and efficiently.