Difference Between Capacitance and Inductance: A Clear Comparison

📚 Definition of Capacitance

Capacitance is the ability of a component or circuit to collect and store energy in the form of an electrical charge. Think of it like a tiny rechargeable battery within your circuit. The most common component that exhibits capacitance is a capacitor.

• ⚡ Symbol: C
• 📏 Unit: Farad (F)
• ➗ Formula: $C = \frac{Q}{V}$, where Q is the charge and V is the voltage.
• 💡 Function: Stores electrical energy in an electric field.
• 🛡️ Effect: Opposes changes in voltage.

⚛️ Definition of Inductance

Inductance is the property of an electrical conductor to oppose a change in current flowing through it. It stems from the magnetic field created by the current. The component that primarily exhibits inductance is an inductor, often a coil of wire.

• 🧲 Symbol: L
• 🌀 Unit: Henry (H)
• ➗ Formula: $V = L \frac{dI}{dt}$, where V is the voltage, I is the current, and t is the time.
• 💡 Function: Stores energy in a magnetic field.
• 🛡️ Effect: Opposes changes in current.

🔬 Capacitance vs. Inductance: A Detailed Comparison

💡 Key Takeaways

• ⚡ Capacitors store energy in an electric field and resist changes in voltage.
• 🧲 Inductors store energy in a magnetic field and resist changes in current.
• 📈 Frequency affects their impedance in opposite ways: Capacitive impedance decreases with frequency, while inductive impedance increases.
• 🛡️ Both are crucial for filtering and energy storage in electronic circuits.