capacitance
kuh-PASS-ih-tunss
/kəˈpæsɪtəns/
The ability of a system or component to store an electric charge per unit of potential difference.
Represents charge-storing capability, measured in Farads.
The story behind the word. Formed from 'capacity' (from Latin 'capere', to hold) + physical suffix '-ance'. Coined to quantify how much charge an electrostatic device could hold.
Word relationships
- charge capacity: Charge capacity refers to battery storage over time (Amp-hours), whereas capacitance refers to instantaneous charge storage per Volt.
- elastance: Elastance is the reciprocal of capacitance, measuring opposition to charge storage.
Commonly confused with
- capacity: Capacity means total volume or battery energy storage; capacitance specifically measures charge divided by voltage.
Word family
- capacitor (noun): An electrical component designed to store electric energy.
- capacitive (adjective): Relating to or possessing capacitance.
Collocations
- parasitic capacitance
- equivalent capacitance
- stray capacitance
- capacitance value
Example sentences
- "Adding a dielectric material between capacitor plates increases overall capacitance." Component engineering design
- "Capacitive touchscreens detect tiny changes in electrical capacitance caused by the human finger." Touchscreen technology description
Memory hook
CAPACITANCE holds a CAPACIOUS amount of charge. Storage capacity for electric charge.
When not to use
Do not confuse with general physical volume or spatial capacity.
Fun facts
- Supercapacitors can deliver massive blasts of stored power in milliseconds, far faster than conventional chemical batteries.
Related words
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