What effect does a higher frequency have on capacitive reactance?

A higher frequency decreases capacitive reactance because capacitive reactance is inversely proportional to both the frequency of the AC signal and the capacitance of the capacitor. The formula for capacitive reactance (Xc) is given by:

[ X_c = \frac{1}{2\pi f C} ]

where:

• (X_c) is the capacitive reactance,

• (f) is the frequency,

• (C) is the capacitance.

As the frequency (f) increases, the value of (X_c) decreases, leading to a lower capacitive reactance. This means that at higher frequencies, the capacitor allows more current to pass through due to its reduced opposition to the change in voltage. Consequently, the correct answer correctly highlights this fundamental relationship in AC circuits involving capacitive elements.