Capacitance

usgb/kəˈpæsɪtəns/
noun

A measure of a device's ability to store an electric charge.

The capacitor has a capacitance of 10 microfarads.
Visual representation of "capacitance" - A measure of a device's ability to store an electric charge.

Often appears as...

  • high capacitance
  • quality factor capacitance

Usage tips

Technical

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "capacitance"
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Electrical Storage

Capacitance measures how much electrical energy a device can hold, like a tiny battery.

Illustration for Electrical Storage
Capacitors with higher capacitance can power your device longer.
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Measured in Farads

Capacitance is measured in farads, a unit named after scientist Michael Faraday.

Illustration for Measured in Farads
This component has a small capacitance, measuring only a few picofarads.
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Physics Specific

When discussing capacitance in physics, it specifically refers to electrical charge storage.

Illustration for Physics Specific
The experiment cannot commence without a proper measurement of the capacitance involved.
Visual representation of the word "Capacitance"

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