Basic Qualification · B-005 Basic electronics and theory · B-005-009-007
What precaution must you take when using polarized electrolytic capacitors?
- A Do not use them in series combinations
- B Never apply a reverse voltage
- C Do not parallel with capacitors other than electrolytics
- D Use them exclusively at radio frequencies
Correct answer: B — Never apply a reverse voltage. From the official ISED question bank, verified word for word.
Why
Polarized electrolytic capacitors have a specific positive and negative side, and applying voltage in the wrong direction causes the internal chemistry to break down, often leading to overheating or even explosion. The full explanation — and one for every question — is in Pro.
Practise this section
The theory: Ohm's law, power, series and parallel circuits, AC and DC, frequency and wavelength, decibels, and the metric prefixes the exam leans on.