A battery is an electronic device that converts chemical energy into electrical energy to provide a static electrical charge for power, whereas a capacitor is an electronic component that stores electrostatic energy in an electric field. Both the capacitor and the battery serve the similar purpose of storing and charging energy, yet they operate in quite different ways for several reasons. Given below in the table are the differences between a capacitor and a battery considering factors such as temperature, voltage and life cycle.
Capacitor vs Battery
| Capacitor | Battery |
| The potential energy is stored in the electric field. | The potential energy is stored in the form of chemical energy, which is later converted to electric energy. |
| It is a passive component of a circuit. | It is an active component of a circuit. |
| It has a lower energy density than a battery. | It has a better energy density than a capacitor. |
| Charging and discharging rates are faster than a battery because it stores energy directly onto the plates. | Because of the conversion of chemical energy to electrical energy, charging and discharging rates are considerably slower. |
| Discharges instantaneously. | Runs for a longer time. |
| Voltage decreases rapidly while discharging. | It provides a constant voltage. |
| Higher cost. | It is relatively cheaper than a capacitor. |
| A capacitor is composed of thin sheet metals held close together or separated by an insulator. | Composed of metals and chemicals. |
Although both batteries and capacitors perform the same function of storing energy, the main difference between them lies in the way they perform this task. Battery store and distribute energy linearly while capacitors store and distribute energy in short bursts. At BYJU’S, learn more differences like the difference between npn and pnp transistors.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
What happens when a capacitor is connected to a battery?
When a capacitor is connected to a battery, the charge is developed on each side of the capacitor. Also, there will be a flow of current in the circuit for some time, and then it decreases to zero.
Where is energy stored in the capacitor?
The energy is stored in the space that is available in the capacitor plates. It is stored in the form of an electric field and is dependent on the amount of electric charge on the plates and the potential difference between the plates.
How is the storage battery rated in capacity?
The capacity of a storage battery is defined as the product of current drawn from a battery to the number of hours the current flows through it. The capacity of the storage battery is measured in ampere-hour.
What is the number of positive plates in a battery cell?
The number of positive plates in a battery cell is always one less than the number of negative plates.
What is the emf of the dry cell?
The emf of the dry cell is 1.5 V.
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