High-voltage capacitor in a low-voltage system

capacitorvoltage

Quick question: is using a capacitor rated for high voltage (let's say 35 V) in a system that, let's say, supplies 5 V (like for LEDs or what have you) dangerous?

Since it can store up to 35 V, will it like somehow store a bunch and then release it at once, damaging the system, or it is OK to use a higher-rated capacitor than the voltage being supplied?

Best Answer

While not a perfect analogy, think of the voltage on the capacitor similar to the liter capacity of a tank. It will hold "35 V" but you needn't fill it completely. But like @JustJeff said, you'd be wise to ensure the container can hold more than necessary to prevent spills (and in an electrolytic capacitor's case, the electrolyte can expand and quite literally "spill" out).

Note that a better analogy to capacity would be the farad unit, since that's a measure of a capacitor's charge capacity, so don't get that confused with voltage, which is the potential to do work.