Tantalum capacitors are a type of electrolytic capacitor that uses tantalum metal for their anode. Known for their high capacitance values and stability, they are widely used in various electronic devices, including smartphones and computers. Their compact size and reliability make them ideal for applications where space is limited. These capacitors are polarized, meaning they have a positive and negative terminal, and must be connected correctly in a circuit. Tantalum capacitors are favored for their ability to operate at high temperatures and voltages, making them essential components in modern electronics, particularly in power supply circuits.