4.1. Capacitor

The capacitor is an electronic component that can store electric charges. It is incredibly simple since it can be constructed solely of 2 conducting parallel plates with insulating material, like air, between them. When we connect the power source and ground to each of the plates respectively, the capacitor charges up until it reaches the power source voltage. It is important to mention that the capacitor blocks the direct current because of the insulating material or dielectric. If we disconnect the power supply, the charge remains on the plates. 

Figure 4‑1 Simple capacitor
(Source: referenced)

An electrolytic capacitor, as shown in the following figure, is a polarizing capacitor in which the positive pole of the anode is made up of a metal (Aluminium) that oxidizes to create a layer of insulator (Al₂0₃). The anode is surrounded by a conductive electrolyte, connected with conducting graphite and silver that serve as a cathode. The electrolytic capacitor is a polarizing element, so we must pay close attention to the direction of the connection.

Figure 4‑2 Electrolytic capacitor
(Source: referenced)

Capacitance is the property of the capacitor, measured by the amount of charge that it can store, and expressed in Farads (F).

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References:

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Capacitor-with-and-without-dielectricum.svg

https://www.wikiwand.com/en/Polymer_capacitor