Which electrical component can store energy in an electric field?

A capacitor is the electrical component specifically designed to store energy in an electric field. This occurs when a voltage is applied across its terminals, causing positive and negative charges to accumulate on its plates. The amount of stored energy can be described mathematically by the equation E = 1/2 C V², where E represents energy, C is capacitance, and V is voltage. This ability to store electric energy allows capacitors to play crucial roles in various applications, such as filtering, smoothing voltage fluctuations, coupling signals, and timing applications in electronic circuits.

In contrast, resistors are components that oppose the flow of electric current and dissipate energy as heat, rather than storing it. Inductors store energy in a magnetic field when an electric current flows through them, which is a different mechanism compared to how capacitors store energy. Fusible links, on the other hand, are safety devices that protect against overcurrent by melting if the current exceeds a certain level; they do not store energy. Thus, the distinct property of capacitors for energy storage in an electric field makes them the correct choice.