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An electrolytic capacitor stores electrical energy or electric charge, and filters out direct current like other capacitors; however, there are important differences between this type and other capacitors.
Identification
An electrolytic capacitor is polarized and contains one or more plates bathed in an ionic solution or electrolyte. The electrolyte is used as a high-resistant dielectric.
Function
Electrolytic capacitors are used for low-frequency circuits to supply voltage filtering, allowing alternating current to flow and blocking direct current. Because of their construction, they are not fit to use for higher frequency circuits.
Considerations
The value of each electrolytic capacitor ranges from one to thousands of microfarads. (See References 3)
Features
Axial electrolytic capacitors feature leads attached to opposite ends, while radial types keep both leads at the same end. Voltage and capacitance ratings should be clearly noted on each one.
Warning
Since this type of capacitor is polarized, it must be connected with proper polarity or it may explode. Exceeding specified voltage may also cause an explosion.
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