When does current in a capacitor move?

When does current in a capacitor move?

• A. When it's in an open circuit
• B. Only when charging or discharging
• C. During steady state operation
• D. Continuously with AC supply

Answer: (B)

In a capacitor, current flows in response to the charging or discharging process. When the capacitor is connected to a voltage source, it charges up by accumulating electric charge on its plates, and during this charging phase, current moves into the capacitor. Similarly, when the capacitor is connected in a circuit that allows it to discharge, the stored energy is released, and current flows out of the capacitor. Thus, the movement of current occurs specifically during these two distinct phases—charging and discharging—rather than continuously or in a steady-state condition. In steady-state operation, after a capacitor is fully charged, no current flows through it as it acts like an open circuit. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the specific conditions under which current actually moves in a capacitor.

In a capacitor, current flows in response to the charging or discharging process. When the capacitor is connected to a voltage source, it charges up by accumulating electric charge on its plates, and during this charging phase, current moves into the capacitor. Similarly, when the capacitor is connected in a circuit that allows it to discharge, the stored energy is released, and current flows out of the capacitor. Thus, the movement of current occurs specifically during these two distinct phases—charging and discharging—rather than continuously or in a steady-state condition. In steady-state operation, after a capacitor is fully charged, no current flows through it as it acts like an open circuit. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the specific conditions under which current actually moves in a capacitor.