Vol. EE Reference
Chapter 9 Circuit Schematic Symbols

Capacitor Types

types of capacitor

A capacitor is a passive two-terminal electronic component that stores electrical energy in an electric field. There are two classifications of capacitors, polarized and non-polarized. 

Polarized capacitors can only be used in one polarity but not the other, this is due to its construction. These types of capacitors are called electrolytics. Non-polarized capacitor on the other hand can be used in any way because it has no implicit polarity. These type of capacitors are sometimes known as bipolar capacitors. Lastly is a variable capacitor, is a capacitor whose capacitance may be intentionally and repeatedly changed.