What is the primary role of a capacitor in an RC circuit?

The primary role of a capacitor in an RC (Resistor-Capacitor) circuit is to store and release electrical charge. In an RC circuit, the capacitor is charged through a resistor when a voltage is applied, and it holds that charge until it is discharged, typically back through the resistor. This behavior allows capacitors to influence the timing and filtering characteristics of the circuit.

When a capacitor charges, it soaks up energy, and when it discharges, it releases that energy back into the circuit, effectively controlling the voltage and current flow over time. In various applications, this characteristic is leveraged to create delays or shape signal waveforms, making capacitors vital components in timing circuits, filters, and various signal-processing applications.

The other options do not accurately represent the primary function of the capacitor in this context. Generating electrical energy is not a role of a capacitor, nor does it inherently increase electrical resistance. While capacitors can contribute to controlling signal timing indirectly through their charging and discharging cycles, that function falls under their primary role of storing and releasing electrical charge.