The polarity of a capacitor is typically indicated by markings on its body. Electrolytic capacitors, which are commonly used and are polarized capacitors, have clear markings denoting their polarity. The longer lead or the lead with a stripe usually indicates the positive terminal, while the shorter lead is connected to the negative terminal. For surface-mount electrolytic capacitors, a stripe or a marking on one side indicates the negative terminal.
To determine the positive and negative terminals of a capacitor, you can also look for markings on the capacitor itself. Manufacturers often label capacitors with “+” or “-” signs near the terminals to indicate polarity. Additionally, the datasheet of the capacitor provides information about its polarity and proper orientation in a circuit.
The polarity of a capacitor matters significantly, especially for electrolytic capacitors. Applying voltage in the wrong polarity can lead to damage, leakage, or even explosion of the capacitor. Proper orientation ensures that the capacitor operates within its specified voltage range and maintains its performance and reliability over time.
Electrolytic capacitors are the type of capacitors that are marked for polarity. These capacitors are designed with a specific polarity, and their construction includes an electrolyte that dictates the polarity-sensitive nature of the component. It is crucial to observe and respect the marked polarity when using electrolytic capacitors in circuits to avoid damage and ensure proper functionality.