In this exercise, we consider capacitors as "buckets of charge". The most common polarized capacitor is the electrolytic capacitor (elko). For elkos, the longer leg is positive (+) and the shorter leg is negative (-). This polarity is especially important when dealing with higher voltages, as incorrect connection can cause the capacitor to explode or leak.
Capacitors are used for various purposes including energy storage, filtering, timing circuits, and coupling/decoupling signals.
Try this in your breadboard and see how it corresponds to the calculator at the end of this page
For more detailed information about capacitors, visit:
Electronics Tutorials - CapacitorsWatch an educational video about capacitors:
YouTube - Understanding CapacitorsLearn more about capacitor types:
DigiKey - Types of CapacitorsCalculate the charge (Q) stored in a capacitor:
Calculate the time constant (τ) of an RC circuit:
Calculate how long the LED will stay lit: