How does a capacitor actually work?

In this video, we will delve into one of the most common electrical components - capacitors. We'll explore the physical principles behind their operation, examine how some of the most common types of capacitors are constructed, and discuss why these devices are needed in the first place.

[@trapperjohn8481]

This is the first video I've seen from this channel. So far, so good. Subscribe button has been smashed.

[@dylangergutierrez]

I take issue with "no current will flow through the capacitor itself, neither direct nor alternating." I understand what you mean by this; no electrons are migrating through the dielectric material. However, from a circuit perspective, if you measure the current going into the terminal of a capacitor, you will get a nonzero reading while it's charging or discharging.

[@TerraPhysica]

Thats what i've ecatly explained the difference

[@Linguae_Music]

Capacitors are like elastic little stretchy bois. I think of them sort of like membranes.

[@adrasx6999]

Actually, it's the dielectric which holds the charge, the plates are only used to access it and create an electric circuit for discharge. You can even take a charged capacitor apart and put it back together, it will still be charged (less of course)

[@TerraPhysica]

It's not correct to say that dielectric holds charge. It holds polarisation, and one may also say that it holds electric field, but not charges, it's wrong and can lead to further misconceptions

[@adrasx6999]

@@TerraPhysica The way you explained it, lead me to the misconception, that you need 2 plates and a dielectric to store energy, but actually only a dielectric is required.

[@The_Green_Man_OAP]

​@@TerraPhysica The dielectric gets polarized by the applied E-fields of the plates (say "E") and then the dielectric has induced ±ve charges ±|Q'| within it that setup an induced E-field E', with induced voltage V'=Q'/C=E'•d. Walter Lewin explained it pretty well.

[@shaungrundle3236]

It fluxes. Duh.