1. How to classify capacitors

1.1 Physical characteristics

The capacitor is generally subjected to a voltage of different nature and form, depending on the application. When the voltage is alternating, it is characterized by its frequency f or by its pulsation ω = 2πf.

A capacitor is characterized by a number of physical quantities that define and limit its fields of application.

• Capacity

  The primary function of a capacitor is to store an electrical charge Q at a voltage V. Its capacitance C is then equal to the ratio of the stored charge to the voltage V applied between its plates:

  $$C=Q\text{/}V$$