top of page
Physics-and-Maths-Tuition-with-Sarah-logo
A Level Physics Tutor

Capacitors

Introduction
 

Capacitors are electrical components that store charge and energy in an electric field. They are widely used in electronic circuits for applications such as energy storage, filtering signals and smoothing power supplies. In this topic, students learn how capacitors charge and discharge, how capacitance is defined, and how energy is stored within a capacitor.
 

AQA A Level Physics Specification: 3.7.3.1 Capacitors
 

What You Need to Know
 

  • Define capacitance as the charge stored per unit potential difference.

  • State the unit of capacitance (farad, F).

  • Apply the equation relating charge, capacitance and potential difference.

  • Explain how energy is stored in a charged capacitor.

  • Calculate the energy stored in a capacitor.

  • Describe the charging and discharging processes of a capacitor.

  • Interpret charge-time, current-time and potential difference-time graphs for charging and discharging.

  • Solve quantitative problems involving capacitance, charge, energy and potential difference.
     

Downloadable Topic Pack
 

Capacitors Topic Pack Exam Questions and Answers

​

Related Topics
 

Enquire Now

Testimonials

Success Stories

Gurpreet S

Claire T.

With Sarah's help my daughter managed to gain an A* in her Physics A Level exams (almost 100% on paper 2!) and was able to gain entry to UCL. We are so proud and cannot thank Sarah enough.

Sarah transformed my daughter's approach to Physics. Her examiner insight was invaluable for boosting her final GCSE grade from a 7 to a 9.

S. Ahmed

Professional and encouraging, Sarah's expert coaching helped my son gain admission to Cambridge to study Natural Sciences. Highly recommended.

James R.

The small group sessions are fantastic. They provided the targeted exam practice and confidence my twins needed to excel.

See more testimonials HERE

bottom of page