What is the primary function of a capacitor in a circuit?

The primary function of a capacitor in a circuit is to store electrical energy. Capacitors are passive electronic components that consist of two conductive plates separated by an insulating material known as a dielectric. When a voltage is applied across the plates, electric charge accumulates, allowing the capacitor to store energy in the form of an electric field.

This stored energy can be released back into the circuit when needed, providing a momentary power boost or smoothing out voltage fluctuations. Capacitors are widely used in various applications, including filtering, coupling, decoupling, timing circuits, and energy storage in power supplies.

The other functions mentioned do not accurately represent the primary role of a capacitor. While capacitors may be utilized in circuits that influence current flow, limit current, or interact with voltage in various ways, their essential characteristic lies in their capacity to store and release electrical energy. This key property makes them fundamental components in electronic circuits.