What is the function of a capacitor in an electric circuit?

The function of a capacitor in an electric circuit is to store electrical energy in an electric field. When a voltage is applied across the terminals of a capacitor, it allows the capacitor to accumulate charge, creating an electric field between its plates. This stored energy can be released back into the circuit when needed, making capacitors essential components in various applications, such as smoothing out voltage fluctuations in power supplies, filtering signals in audio equipment, and temporarily storing energy in flash photography.

In contrast, the other options highlight different concepts that do not accurately describe the role of a capacitor. Increasing current flow relates to factors such as resistance and voltage sources, while decreasing voltage concerns impedance or resistive components rather than storage. Measuring resistance is a function of an ohmmeter, not a capacitor. Understanding the primary role of a capacitor as a device for energy storage highlights its significance in electrical systems and helps clarify its application in practical scenarios.