capacitor

A capacitor is a device that stores electrical energy temporarily. It consists of two conductive plates separated by an insulating material called a dielectric. When electricity flows into the capacitor, it accumulates on one plate and charges the other, creating an electrical field. This stored energy can be released when needed, helping to smooth out voltage fluctuations in circuits or provide quick bursts of energy. Think of it as a kind of electrical "battery" that charges and discharges rapidly, playing a key role in many electronic devices and systems.