Capacitors are essential electronic components that store and release electrical energy. They consist of two conductive plates separated by an insulating material called a dielectric. When voltage is applied, an electric field forms between the plates, allowing the capacitor to store energy for later use. This property makes capacitors crucial in various applications, from smoothing out voltage fluctuations in power supplies to enabling rapid discharge in camera flashes. In addition to energy storage, capacitors play a vital role in filtering signals and tuning circuits. They can be found in everyday devices such as smartphones, computers, and televisions, helping to ensure stable operation and improved performance.