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.
Electrolitic Capacitors
Aug 09, 2006
4 Replies
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.
snipped-for-privacy@gmail.com wrote in news:1155086482.271379.320500@
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If you're lucky, your circuit just doesn't work.
Puckdropper
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It will destroy the capacitor - it might not explode, but the capacitor will be rendered useless.
Sorry )-; Rich
Will by any means be a short.... i think i read in Sedra i suppose ...
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