Definition

1. Noun:
   • A fixed capacitor consisting of two electrodes separated by an electrolyte: An "electrolytic condenser" is a type of capacitor that uses an electrolyte to achieve a high capacitance in a relatively small volume. One electrode is typically a metal, and the other is a conductive liquid or gel (the electrolyte), separated by a thin insulating oxide layer.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The power supply circuit requires an electrolytic condenser to smooth the voltage.
  • When replacing the faulty component, ensure the polarity of the electrolytic condenser is correct.
  • Early radio designs heavily relied on large electrolytic condensers.

Advanced Usage

• Technical Specification: Often specified by capacitance (e.g., microfarads, µF), voltage rating, and tolerance.
  • This design calls for a 1000µF, 25V electrolytic condenser.

Variants and Related Words

• Electrolytic capacitor: A more common modern synonym for "electrolytic condenser." The terms are often used interchangeably, though "capacitor" is now standard.
• Capacitor: The general category of components that store electrical energy, which includes electrolytic types.
• Tantalum capacitor: A subtype of electrolytic capacitor using tantalum, known for stability and smaller size.

Synonyms

• Electrolytic capacitor: The direct and most common synonym.
• Polarized capacitor: Highlights its key characteristic of having a defined positive and negative terminal.

Related Phrases

• "Polarity of an electrolytic condenser": Refers to the correct orientation (positive and negative terminals) required for its proper and safe operation in a circuit.
  • Incorrectly connecting the polarity of an electrolytic condenser can cause it to fail catastrophically.

Noun

1. a fixed capacitor consisting of two electrodes separated by an electrolyte