- #1
jaydnul
- 558
- 15
Is there a difference between these two things or is an electrolytic cell just a larger version of an electrolytic capacitor?
In summary, An electrolytic cell is a compact package that contains a pair of electrodes with an electrolyte and is used to form an electrolytic capacitor. However, most electrolytic cells serve other purposes and cannot be substituted for capacitors. The main difference between a capacitor and an electrolytic cell is that the latter has an electrolyte that conducts electricity, while a capacitor has a dielectric material between two plates. It is important to note that only the electrolytic capacitor is considered a cell, as plastic dielectric capacitors are not.
- #2
NascentOxygen
Staff Emeritus
Science Advisor
- 9,242
- 1,074
To form an electrolytic capacitor, they manufacture a compact package that's an electrolytic cell (a pair of electrodes with electrolyte) and apply DC! Simple. 
Most electrolytic cells serve some other purpose and don't end up as capacitors. Your car battery, for example.
Most electrolytic cells serve some other purpose and don't end up as capacitors. Your car battery, for example.
- #3
jaydnul
- 558
- 15
So you really couldn't replace a capacitor with an electrolytic cell, right? It seems to me the only difference is that one has a dielectric in between two plates and the other has an electrolyte, which conducts electricity.
- #4
NascentOxygen
Staff Emeritus
Science Advisor
- 9,242
- 1,074
They are called different names, and there is no possibility of accidently substituting one for the other. A capacitor requires that the plates be really, really, really close together, but still not touching, to produce much capacitance.lundyjb said:
It needs to be made clear that it is only the electrolytic capacitor that is a cell; plastic dielectric capacitors are not electrolytic cells.
The dielectric in an electrolytic capacitor actually comprises an aluminium oxide layer plus the electrolyte. The electrolyte does "conduct electricity" and you'll find this out if you accidently connect the device in a circuit so that the DC polarity dissolves the oxide layer instead of maintaining it. As soon as there is any cool person in the insulating layer, BANG!
- #5
alphy
- 1,403
- 1
An electrolytic capacitor and an electrolytic cell are two different things with distinct functions. A capacitor is a passive electronic component that stores electrical energy in an electric field, while a cell is an active device that converts chemical energy into electrical energy.
An electrolytic capacitor is made up of two conductive plates separated by an electrolyte, which serves as the dielectric material. It is used to store and release energy quickly in electronic circuits, such as in power supplies and audio equipment.
On the other hand, an electrolytic cell consists of two electrodes (anode and cathode) immersed in an electrolyte solution. When a voltage is applied, a chemical reaction occurs at the electrodes, producing an electric current. This is the principle behind batteries and fuel cells.
Therefore, while both an electrolytic capacitor and an electrolytic cell involve the use of an electrolyte, they serve different purposes and have different structures. An electrolytic cell is not just a larger version of an electrolytic capacitor, but a completely different device with its own unique properties and applications.
FAQ: Electrolytic capacitor vs electrolytic cell
What is the difference between an electrolytic capacitor and an electrolytic cell?
An electrolytic capacitor is a passive electronic component that stores energy in an electric field, while an electrolytic cell is an active electrochemical device that converts chemical energy into electrical energy. In simpler terms, a capacitor is used to store energy, while a cell is used to produce energy.
How do the construction and materials differ between an electrolytic capacitor and an electrolytic cell?
An electrolytic capacitor is typically made of two conductive plates separated by a dielectric material, while an electrolytic cell consists of two electrodes immersed in an electrolyte solution. The electrodes in a cell are usually made of different materials, while the plates in a capacitor are typically made of the same material. The electrolyte solution in a cell also plays a critical role in the electrochemical reactions, while the dielectric material in a capacitor only serves to store charge.
Can an electrolytic capacitor be used as an electrolytic cell and vice versa?
No, an electrolytic capacitor cannot be used as an electrolytic cell and vice versa. The two components have different purposes and are designed differently. Attempting to use a capacitor as a cell or vice versa could result in damage to the component and potentially dangerous situations.
How do the charging and discharging processes differ between an electrolytic capacitor and an electrolytic cell?
An electrolytic capacitor can store charge and release it quickly, making it suitable for applications where a quick discharge is needed. An electrolytic cell, on the other hand, takes longer to charge and discharge as it relies on chemical reactions. This makes electrolytic cells better suited for applications where a sustained and steady supply of energy is required.
What are the main applications of electrolytic capacitors and electrolytic cells?
Electrolytic capacitors are commonly used in electronic circuits to smooth out voltage fluctuations and store energy. They are also used in power supplies, audio equipment, and other electronic devices. Electrolytic cells are used as sources of electrical energy in batteries, fuel cells, and other electrochemical devices. They are also used in various industrial processes, such as metal plating and wastewater treatment.