Elektrolitkondenzátor

Elektrolitkondenzátor is a type of capacitor that uses an electrolyte to achieve a larger capacitance than other types of capacitors. The electrolyte can be either solid or liquid. Electrolytic capacitors are polarized, meaning they must be connected in the correct direction. This is typically indicated by markings on the capacitor's casing. If connected incorrectly, they can be damaged or even explode.

The construction of an electrolytic capacitor involves an anode made of a metal that readily forms an insulating oxide layer, such as aluminum or tantalum. This oxide layer acts as the dielectric. A second electrode is in contact with the electrolyte, which itself is in contact with the oxide layer. The electrolyte serves as the cathode. The electrolyte can be a liquid, a gel, or a solid semiconductor material.

Electrolytic capacitors are widely used in electronic circuits where high capacitance is required, such as in power supplies for filtering and smoothing out voltage fluctuations, in audio circuits for coupling and decoupling, and in timing circuits. Their main advantage is their high volumetric efficiency, meaning they can store a large amount of charge for their size. However, they typically have a lower tolerance for capacitance value, a higher leakage current, and a shorter lifespan compared to some other capacitor types. They are also susceptible to damage from overvoltage, reverse voltage, and high temperatures.