Electrolitic Capacitors

What will happen if u connect an electrolitic capacitor, in opposite polarity ?? .... can we use an electrolitic capacitor in an Astable Multivibrator ??.... since charging in both ways is essential to its working... ? ... I would like to know the exact physical process that will happen to the electodes and electrolyte inside... when u connect it the opposite way.

Reply to
JikkuJose
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If you charge an electrolytic capacitor in reverse more than a volt or so, atomic hydrogen is produced on the aluminum plate that is insulated with aluminum oxide. The hydrogen combines with the oxygen, breaking down the oxide, and spoiling the insulation.

A well designed astable using electrolytic capacitors for timing does not reverse bias the capacitor, but just charges it up and discharges it (current alternating in direction), all with one polarity of voltage.

Reply to
John Popelish

snipped-for-privacy@gmail.com wrote in news:1155086482.271379.320500@

75g2000cwc.googlegroups.com:

If you're lucky, your circuit just doesn't work.

Puckdropper

--
Wise is the man who attempts to answer his question before asking it.

To email me directly, send a message to puckdropper (at) fastmail.fm
Reply to
Puckdropper

It will destroy the capacitor - it might not explode, but the capacitor will be rendered useless.

Sorry )-; Rich

Reply to
Rich Grise

Will by any means be a short.... i think i read in Sedra i suppose ...

Reply to
Jiks

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