In electric circuits, capacitors and inductors are essential components with distinct properties. A capacitor stores electric charge, while an inductor stores magnetic energy. These components play a vital role in shaping the behavior of circuits.

Capacitors

A capacitor consists of two conducting plates separated by an insulating material, known as a dielectric. When a voltage is applied across the plates, electrons accumulate on one plate and deplete from the other, creating an electric field between them. The amount of charge stored on a capacitor depends on its capacitance, denoted by the symbol 'C' and measured in farads (F). The relationship between voltage (V), capacitance (C), and charge (Q) is given by Q = CV.

Inductors

Inductors, on the other hand, are coils of wire that generate a magnetic field when a current flows through them. The magnetic field stores energy in the form of magnetic flux. The amount of flux produced by an inductor depends on its inductance, denoted by the symbol 'L' and measured in henries (H). The relationship between inductance (L), current (I), and magnetic flux (Φ) is given by Φ = LI.

Behavior of Capacitors and Inductors

Capacitors and inductors have unique behaviors in circuits. For capacitors, they block direct current (DC) while allowing alternating current (AC) to flow. They are commonly used in frequency-selective circuits, such as filters, to pass or block specific frequencies. Inductors, on the other hand, resist changes in current and are used in circuits to store energy temporarily and produce magnetic fields.