What is the Difference Between Capacitor and Inductor?

The main difference between a capacitor and an inductor is their function and the way they store energy. Here are the key differences between the two:

1. Function: A capacitor opposes a change in voltage, while an inductor opposes a change in current.
2. Energy Storage: Capacitors store energy in the form of an electric field, while inductors store energy in the form of a magnetic field.
3. Unit of Measurement: The unit of capacitance is the farad (F), while the unit of inductance is the henry (H).
4. Response to AC and DC: Capacitors function as a short circuit for alternating current (AC) and an open circuit for direct current (DC). Inductors, on the other hand, function as a short circuit for direct current and present high resistance to alternating current.

In summary, capacitors and inductors are both passive electronic components that store energy, but they differ in their function, energy storage mechanism, and response to alternating and direct currents.

Comparative Table: Capacitor vs Inductor

Here is a table comparing the differences between capacitors and inductors:

Capacitors store energy in the form of an electric field, while inductors store energy in the form of a magnetic field. Capacitors resist changes in voltage, while inductors resist changes in current. Capacitors do not allow current to flow through their plates, whereas current passes through the coil of an inductor. In AC circuits, the voltage across a capacitor lags behind the current, while the current through an inductor lags behind the voltage. In DC circuits, the current in a capacitor decreases over time, while the current in an inductor increases over time. Capacitors are best suited for high frequencies, while inductors are more effective at low frequencies.