A capacitor and an inductor are two fundamental components that store energy by harnessing electric and magnetic fields, respectively.

Both capacitors and inductors serve as energy storage devices widely utilized in electrical circuits. A capacitor stores energy by accumulating electric charge on its plates, which generates an electric field between them. The energy stored in a capacitor can be calculated using the formula:

where $E$ represents the energy stored, $C$ is the capacitance, and $V$ is the voltage across the capacitor. Capacitors are commonly employed in circuits to smooth out voltage fluctuations or to temporarily store energy for brief intervals.

In contrast, an inductor stores energy by producing a magnetic field when an electric current passes through it. This magnetic field holds energy in the form of potential energy and can be released when the current ceases. The energy stored in an inductor is given by the equation:

where $E$ is the energy stored, $L$ is the inductance, and $I$ is the current flowing through the inductor. Inductors are frequently used in circuits to filter high-frequency noise or to store energy for extended periods.

Capacitors and inductors can be utilized together in circuits to create oscillations, such as those found in radio transmitters and receivers. In these applications, energy is exchanged between the electric field in the capacitor and the magnetic field in the inductor, resulting in a continuous cycle of energy storage and release.

In summary, capacitors and inductors are critical energy storage devices in electrical circuits, each storing energy in distinct forms—electric and magnetic fields, respectively. A solid understanding of their operational principles is essential for grasping many concepts in electrical engineering and physics.