CASTLE #3: Capacitors Basics

Front

What is a capacitor?

Back

A capacitor is a device formed by two layers of conducting material separated by an insulating layer, used to store charge.

Front

What are the conducting layers in a capacitor called?

Back

The conducting layers in a capacitor are called capacitor plates.

Front

What is the function of the insulating layer in a capacitor?

Back

The insulating layer prevents movement of charge from one plate to the other inside the capacitor.

Front

How can you make a simple capacitor?

Back

By placing a sheet of waxed paper between two sheets of aluminum foil.

Front

Why do capacitor plates have a large surface area?

Back

To store a large amount of charge.

Front

What is a terminal in a capacitor?

Back

A terminal is a screw or wire attached to each plate, extending outside the can, allowing the plate to be connected to a circuit.

Front

What is capacitance?

Back

Capacitance is the charge-holding ability of a capacitor.

Front

In what unit is capacitance measured?

Back

Capacitance is measured in farads.

Front

Who is the farad unit named after?

Back

The farad is named after the British scientist Michael Faraday (1791-1867).

Front

What is the capacitance of the blue capacitor in the CASTLE kit?

Back

0.025 farad, or 25,000 microfarads (μF or MF).