Capacitors are used in virtually any type of circuit. They have many applications, but their operation is really basic. As electricity is not seen, understanding the operation of a capacitor can be a bit complicated. Even if you already know how they work, this article can help you better visualize the current in your head, understanding a real circuit better. How a capacitor works AC capacitors consist of two sheets of conductive metal, separated very close by an insulating material, such as plastic or ceramic. The conductive sheets are so close that their atoms can see each other but not touch each other. The dielectric will not allow the electrons to pass from one sheet to the other. Charging and discharging a capacitor Charging the capacitor When applying an electrical voltage with Motor-run Capacitors , it will provide electrons for one pole, and attract them for the other. The contributed electrons will crowd in one sheet of the capacitor, and i