Which circuit element stores energy in an electric field?

• A. Inductor
• B. Capacitor
• C. Resistor
• D. Transformer

Answer: (B)

The correct choice is a capacitor, as it is specifically designed to store energy in an electric field. Capacitors consist of two conductive plates separated by an insulating material called a dielectric. When a voltage is applied across these plates, an electric field is generated between them, causing electric charge to accumulate on the plates. The amount of energy storage in a capacitor is directly related to the voltage across it and its capacitance, expressed mathematically as (E = \frac{1}{2} C V^2), where (E) is the energy stored, (C) is the capacitance, and (V) is the voltage.

Understanding the function of a capacitor is crucial for numerous applications in electronic circuits, including filtering, timing, and energy storage in power systems.