What is the purpose of a capacitor in an electrical system?

The purpose of a capacitor in an electrical system is to store electrical charge. Capacitors are passive electronic components that consist of two conductive plates separated by an insulating material. When a voltage is applied across the plates, an electric field is created, allowing the capacitor to accumulate and hold charge. This stored energy can then be released back into the circuit when needed, providing functions such as stabilizing power supplies, smoothing out fluctuations in voltage, and providing temporary power during brief interruptions.

In addition to this primary role, capacitors can also help filter signals in various applications by allowing certain frequencies to pass while blocking others, but their fundamental purpose remains the storage of electrical charge. This characteristic is crucial in many electronic devices, enabling efficient energy management and enhancing the performance of the overall electrical system.