Electronic component and electronic component device

Abstract

An element body includes a principal surface arranged to constitute a mounting surface and a first side surface adjacent to the principal surface. An external electrode includes a first electrode portion disposed on the principal surface and a second electrode portion disposed on the first side surface. The first electrode portion includes a sintered metal layer, a conductive resin layer formed on the sintered metal layer, and a plating layer formed on the conductive resin layer. The second electrode portion includes a first region and a second region. The first region includes a sintered metal layer and a plating layer formed on the sintered metal layer. The second region includes a sintered metal layer, a conductive resin layer formed on the sintered metal layer, and a plating layer formed on the conductive resin layer. The second region is located closer to the principal surface than the first region.

Claims

1. An electronic component comprising: an element body of a rectangular parallelepiped shape including a first principal surface arranged to constitute a mounting surface, a second principal surface opposing the first principal surface in a first direction, a pair of side surfaces opposing each other in a second direction, and a pair of end surfaces opposing each other in a third direction; a plurality of internal electrodes in the element body, the plurality of internal electrodes (i) opposing each other in the second direction and (ii) comprising a first set of internal electrodes and a second set of internal electrodes; and a pair of external electrodes at the pair of end surfaces; wherein: each of the first set of internal electrodes (a) has a first end (i) exposed to a first end surface of the pair of end surfaces and (ii) coupled to a first external electrode of the pair of external electrodes and (b) is not coupled to a second external electrode of the pair of external electrodes; each of the second set of internal electrodes (a) has a first end (i) exposed to the second end surface of the pair of end surfaces and (ii) coupled to the second external electrode of the pair of external electrodes and (b) is not coupled to the first external electrode of the pair of external electrodes; the first external electrode of the pair of external electrodes (i) covers an entirety of the first end surface of the pair of end surfaces and (ii) includes a conductive resin layer covering a portion of the first end surface of the pair of end surfaces; the second external electrode of the pair of external electrodes (i) covers an entirety of the second end surface of the pair of end surfaces and includes (ii) a conductive resin layer covering a portion of the second end surface of the pair of end surfaces; the first end of the each of the first set of internal electrodes includes a first region that overlaps the conductive resin layer of the first external electrode of the pair of external electrodes and a second region that does not overlap the conductive resin layer of the first external electrode of the pair of external electrodes, when viewed in the third direction; and the first end of the each of the second set of internal electrodes includes a first region that overlaps the conductive resin layer of the second external electrode of the pair of external electrodes and a second region that does not overlap the conductive resin layer of the second external electrode of the pair of external electrodes, when viewed in the third direction.

2. The electronic component according to claim 1, wherein a length of each of (i) the first region of the first end of the each of the first set of internal electrodes and (ii) the first region of the first end of the each of the second set of internal electrodes in the first direction is smaller than a length of each of (ii) the second region of the first end of the each of the first set of internal electrodes and (ii) the second region of the first end of the each of the second set of internal electrodes, in the first direction.

3. The electronic component according to claim 1, wherein: the first external electrode of the pair of external electrodes includes a sintered metal layer on the first end surface of the pair of end surfaces connected to the second region of the first end of the each of the first set of internal electrodes; and the second external electrode of the pair of external electrodes includes a sintered metal layer on the second end surface of the pair of end surfaces connected to the second region of the first end of the each of the second set of internal electrodes.

4. The electronic component according to claim 3, wherein the first ends of all of the first set of internal electrodes are connected to the sintered metal layer of the first external electrode of the pair of external electrodes and the first ends of all of the second set of internal electrodes are connected to the sintered metal layer of the second external electrode of the pair of external electrodes.

5. The electronic component according to claim 3, wherein the each of the pair of external electrodes includes a plating layer covering the conductive resin layer and the sintered metal layer.

6. The electronic component according to claim 1, wherein (i) an end edge of the conductive resin layer of the first external electrode of the pair of external electrodes and the first end of the each of the first set of internal electrodes cross and (ii) an end edge of the conductive resin layer of the second external electrode of the pair of external electrodes and the first end of the each of the second set of internal electrodes cross, when viewed from the third direction.

7. The electronic component according to claim 1, wherein each of the conductive resin layer of the first external electrode of the pair of external electrodes and the second external electrode of the pair of external electrodes covers a portion of the first principal surface near one of the pair of end surfaces.

8. The electronic component according to claim 1, wherein the each of the conductive resin layer of the first external electrode of the pair of external electrodes and the second external electrode of the pair of external electrodes covers a portion of a side surface of the pair of side surfaces.

9. The electronic component according to claim 8, wherein a portion of the each of the conductive resin layer of the first external electrode of the pair of external electrodes and the second external electrode of the pair of external electrodes on the portion of the side surface of the pair of side surfaces opposes an internal electrode of the plurality of internal electrodes having a polarity different from that of the portion, in the second direction.

10. The electronic component according to claim 1, wherein the each of the conductive resin layer of the first external electrode of the pair of external electrodes and the second external electrode of the pair of external electrodes is not on the second principal surface.

11. The electronic component according to claim 1, wherein a distance between each of the pair of side surfaces and an internal electrode of the plurality of internal electrodes nearest to the each of the pair of side surfaces in the second direction is larger than a distance between the first principal surface and the internal electrode of the plurality of internal electrodes in the first direction, and larger than a distance between the second principal surface and the internal electrode of the plurality of internal electrodes in the first direction.

12. An electronic component comprising: an element body of a rectangular parallelepiped shape including a first principal surface arranged to constitute a mounting surface, a second principal surface opposing the first principal surface, a side surface adjacent to the first and second principal surfaces, and an end surface adjacent to the first and second principal surfaces and the side surface; and on the side surface, wherein the side surface includes a first region close to the first principal surface and the end surface and a second region close to the second principal surface and the end surface, an external electrode including an electrode portion includes a conductive resin layer on the first region, and the second region is exposed from the conductive resin layer.

13. The electronic component according to claim 12, wherein the end surface includes a third region close to the first principal surface and a fourth region close to the second principal surface, the external electrode includes another electrode portion on the end surface and coupled to the electrode portion, the other electrode portion includes a conductive resin layer on the third region, and the fourth portion is exposed from the conductive resin layer included in the other electrode portion.

14. The electronic component according to claim 13, wherein the conductive resin layers included in the electrode portion and the other electrode portion are coupled on a ridge portion between the side surface and the end surface.

15. An electronic component comprising: an element body of a rectangular parallelepiped shape including a first principal surface arranged to constitute a mounting surface, a second principal surface opposing the first principal surface, a side surface adjacent to the first and second principal surfaces, and an end surface adjacent to the first and second principal surfaces and the side surface; and an external electrode including an electrode portion on the side surface, wherein the electrode portion includes a first portion including a conductive resin layer and a second portion including no conductive resin layer, and the first portion is closer to the first principal surface than the second portion.

16. The electronic component according to claim 15, wherein the external electrode includes another electrode portion on the end surface and coupled to the electrode portion, the other electrode portion includes a third portion including a conductive resin layer and a fourth portion including no conductive resin layer, and the third portion is closer to the first principal surface than the fourth portion.

17. The electronic component according to claim 16, wherein the conductive resin layers included in the electrode portion and the other electrode portion are coupled on a ridge portion between the side surface and the end surface.

18. An electronic component comprising: an element body of a rectangular parallelepiped shape including a principal surface arranged to constitute a mounting surface and a first side surface adjacent to the principal surface; and an external electrode including an electrode portion on the first side surface, wherein the electrode portion includes a first portion including a conductive resin layer, and a second portion including no conductive resin layer, and the first portion is closer to the principal surface than the second portion.

19. The electronic component according to claim 18, wherein the element body includes a second side surface adjacent to the principal surface and the first side surface, the external electrode includes another electrode portion on the second side surface and coupled to the electrode portion, and the other electrode portion includes a third portion including a conductive resin layer.

20. The electronic component according to claim 19, wherein the conductive resin layers included in the first and the third portions are coupled on a ridge portion between the first and second side surfaces.

21. The electronic component according to claim 18, wherein: the electrode portion includes a sinter metal layer, and the sinter metal layer is covered with conductive resin layer in the first portion, and is exposed from the conductive resin layer in the second portion.

22. The electronic component according to claim 18, wherein the external electrode includes another electrode portion on the principal surface and coupled to the electrode portion, and the other electrode portion includes a conductive resin layer.

23. The electronic component according to claim 22, wherein the conductive resin layers included in the first portion and the other electrode portion are coupled on a ridge portion between the first side surface and the principal surface.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

(1) FIG. 1 is a plan view of a multilayer capacitor according to a first embodiment.

(2) FIG. 2 is a plan view of the multilayer capacitor according to the first embodiment.

(3) FIG. 3 is a side view of the multilayer capacitor according to the first embodiment.

(4) FIG. 4 is a side view of the multilayer capacitor according to the first embodiment.

(5) FIG. 5 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer capacitor according to the first embodiment.

(6) FIG. 6 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer capacitor according to the first embodiment.

(7) FIG. 7 is a plan view of a multilayer capacitor according to a modification of the first embodiment.

(8) FIG. 8 is a plan view of the multilayer capacitor according to the modification of the first embodiment.

(9) FIG. 9 is a side view of the multilayer capacitor according to the modification.

(10) FIG. 10 is a side view of the multilayer capacitor according to the modification.

(11) FIG. 11 is a plan view of a multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to a second embodiment.

(12) FIG. 12 is a plan view of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the second embodiment.

(13) FIG. 13 is a side view of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the second embodiment.

(14) FIG. 14 is a side view of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the second embodiment.

(15) FIG. 15 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the second embodiment.

(16) FIG. 16 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the second embodiment.

(17) FIG. 17 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the second embodiment.

(18) FIG. 18 is a plan view of a multilayer capacitor according to a third embodiment.

(19) FIG. 19 is a plan view of the multilayer capacitor according to the third embodiment.

(20) FIG. 20 is a side view of the multilayer capacitor according to the third embodiment.

(21) FIG. 21 is a side view of the multilayer capacitor according to the third embodiment.

(22) FIG. 22 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of external electrodes included in the multilayer capacitor according to the third embodiment.

(23) FIG. 23 is a plan view of a multilayer capacitor according to a fourth embodiment.

(24) FIG. 24 is a plan view of the multilayer capacitor according to the fourth embodiment.

(25) FIG. 25 is a side view of the multilayer capacitor according to the fourth embodiment.

(26) FIG. 26 is a side view of the multilayer capacitor according to the fourth embodiment.

(27) FIGS. 27A and 27B are views illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of external electrodes included in the multilayer capacitor according to the fourth embodiment.

(28) FIG. 28 is a plan view of a multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to a fifth embodiment.

(29) FIG. 29 is a side view of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the fifth embodiment.

(30) FIG. 30 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the fifth embodiment.

(31) FIG. 31 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the fifth embodiment.

(32) FIG. 32 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the fifth embodiment.

(33) FIG. 33 is a plan view of a multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to a modification of the fifth embodiment.

(34) FIG. 34 is a plan view of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the modification.

(35) FIG. 35 is a side view of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the modification.

(36) FIG. 36 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of an electronic component device according to a sixth embodiment.

(37) FIG. 37 is a side view of a multilayer capacitor according to a modification of the first embodiment.

(38) FIG. 38 is a side view of a multilayer capacitor according to a modification of the first embodiment.

(39) FIG. 39 is a side view of a multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to a modification of the second embodiment.

(40) FIG. 40 is a side view of a multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to a modification of the second embodiment.

(41) FIG. 41 is a plan view of a multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to a modification of the second embodiment.

(42) FIG. 42 is a plan view of a multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to a seventh embodiment.

(43) FIG. 43 is a plan view of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the seventh embodiment.

(44) FIG. 44 is a side view of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the seventh embodiment.

(45) FIG. 45 is a side view of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the seventh embodiment.

(46) FIG. 46 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the seventh embodiment.

(47) FIG. 47 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the seventh embodiment.

(48) FIG. 48 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the seventh embodiment.

(49) FIG. 49 is a view illustrating a mounted structure of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the seventh embodiment.

(50) FIG. 50 is a view illustrating the mounted structure of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the seventh embodiment.

(51) FIG. 51 is a plan view of a multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to a modification of the seventh embodiment.

(52) FIG. 52 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the modification of the seventh embodiment.

(53) FIG. 53 is a plan view of a multilayer capacitor according to an eighth embodiment.

(54) FIG. 54 is a plan view of the multilayer capacitor according to the eighth embodiment.

(55) FIG. 55 is a side view of the multilayer capacitor according to the eighth embodiment.

(56) FIG. 56 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of external electrodes included in the multilayer capacitor according to the eighth embodiment.

(57) FIG. 57 is a perspective view of a multilayer capacitor according to a ninth embodiment.

(58) FIG. 58 is a side view of the multilayer capacitor according to the ninth embodiment.

(59) FIG. 59 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer capacitor according to the ninth embodiment.

(60) FIG. 60 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer capacitor according to the ninth embodiment.

(61) FIG. 61 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer capacitor according to the ninth embodiment.

(62) FIG. 62 is a plan view illustrating an element body, a first electrode layer, and a second electrode layer.

(63) FIG. 63 is a side view illustrating the element body, the first electrode layer, and the second electrode layer.

(64) FIG. 64 is an end view illustrating the element body, the first electrode layer, and the second electrode layer.

(65) FIG. 65 is a view illustrating a mounted structure of the multilayer capacitor according to the ninth embodiment.

(66) FIG. 66 is a side view of a multilayer capacitor according to a modification of the ninth embodiment.

(67) FIG. 67 is a side view of a multilayer capacitor according to a modification of the ninth embodiment.

(68) FIG. 68 is a side view of a multilayer capacitor according to a modification of the ninth embodiment.

(69) FIG. 69 is a plan view of a multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to a tenth embodiment.

(70) FIG. 70 is a plan view of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the tenth embodiment.

(71) FIG. 71 is a side view of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the tenth embodiment.

(72) FIG. 72 is an end view of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the tenth embodiment.

(73) FIG. 73 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the tenth embodiment.

(74) FIG. 74 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the tenth embodiment.

(75) FIG. 75 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the tenth embodiment.

(76) FIG. 76 is a side view illustrating an element body, a first electrode layer, and a second electrode layer.

(77) FIG. 77 is a plan view illustrating an element body, a first electrode layer, and a second electrode layer.

(78) FIG. 78 is a side view illustrating the element body, the first electrode layer, and the second electrode layer.

(79) FIG. 79 is an end view illustrating an element body, a first electrode layer, and a second electrode layer.

(80) FIG. 80 is an end view illustrating an element body, a first electrode layer, and a second electrode layer.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

(81) Embodiments of the present invention will be hereinafter described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the description, the same reference numerals are used for the same elements or elements having the same functions, and redundant descriptions thereabout are omitted.

First Embodiment

(82) A configuration of a multilayer capacitor C1 according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6. FIGS. 1 and 2 are plan views of a multilayer capacitor according to the first embodiment. FIGS. 3 and 4 are side views of the multilayer capacitor according to the first embodiment. FIGS. 5 and 6 are views illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer capacitor according to the first embodiment. In the first embodiment, an electronic component is, for example, the multilayer capacitor C1.

(83) As illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4, the multilayer capacitor C1 includes an element body 3 of a rectangular parallelepiped shape and a pair of external electrodes 5. The pair of external electrodes 5 is disposed on an outer surface of the element body 3. The pair of external electrodes 5 is separated from each other. The rectangular parallelepiped shape includes a rectangular parallelepiped shape in which corners and ridges are chamfered, and a rectangular parallelepiped shape in which the corners and ridges are rounded.

(84) The element body 3 includes a pair of principal surfaces 3a and 3b opposing each other, a pair of side surfaces 3c opposing each other, and a pair of side surfaces 3e opposing each other. The pair of principal surfaces 3a and 3b and the pair of side surfaces 3c have a rectangular shape. The direction in which the pair of principal surfaces 3a and 3b opposes each other is a first direction D1. The direction in which the pair of side surfaces 3c opposes each other is a second direction D2. The direction in which the pair of side surfaces 3e opposes each other is a third direction D3.

(85) The first direction D1 is a direction orthogonal to the respective principal surfaces 3a and 3b and is orthogonal to the second direction D2. The third direction D3 is a direction parallel to the respective principal surfaces 3a and 3b and the respective side surfaces 3c, and is orthogonal to the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. In the first embodiment, a length of the element body 3 in the third direction D3 is larger than a length of the element body 3 in the first direction D1, and larger than a length of the element body 3 in the second direction D2. The third direction D3 is a longitudinal direction of the element body 3.

(86) The pair of side surfaces 3c extends in the first direction D1 to couple the pair of principal surfaces 3a and 3b. The pair of side surfaces 3c also extends in the third direction D3. The pair of side surfaces 3e extends in the first direction D1 to couple the pair of principal surfaces 3a and 3b. The pair of side surfaces 3e also extends in the second direction D2. Each of the principal surfaces 3a and 3b is adjacent to the pair of side surfaces 3c and the pair of side surfaces 3e.

(87) The element body 3 is configured by laminating a plurality of dielectric layers in the first direction D1. The element body 3 includes the plurality of laminated dielectric layers. In the element body 3, a lamination direction of the plurality of dielectric layers coincides with the first direction D1. Each dielectric layer includes, for example, a sintered body of a ceramic green sheet containing a dielectric material. As the dielectric material, for example, a dielectric ceramic of BaTiO.sub.3 base, Ba(Ti,Zr)O.sub.3 base, or (Ba,Ca)TiO.sub.3 base is used. In an actual element body 3, each of the dielectric layers is integrated to such an extent that a boundary between the dielectric layers cannot be visually recognized. In the element body 3, the lamination direction of the plurality of dielectric layers may coincide with the second direction D2.

(88) As illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, the multilayer capacitor C1 includes a plurality of internal electrodes 7 and a plurality of internal electrodes 9. Each of the internal electrodes 7 and 9 is an internal conductor disposed in the element body 3. Each of the internal electrodes 7 and 9 is made of a conductive material that is usually used as an internal electrode of a multilayer electronic component. As the conductive material, a base metal (e.g., Ni or Cu) is used. Each of the internal electrodes 7 and 9 includes a sintered body of a conductive paste containing the above conductive material. In the first embodiment, each of the internal electrodes 7 and 9 is made of Ni.

(89) The internal electrodes 7 and the internal electrodes 9 are disposed in different positions (layers) in the first direction D1. The internal electrodes 7 and the internal electrodes 9 are alternately disposed in the element body 3 to oppose each other in the first direction D1 with an interval therebetween. Polarities of the internal electrodes 7 and the internal electrodes 9 are different from each other. In a case in which the lamination direction of the plurality of dielectric layers is the second direction D2, the internal electrodes 7 and the internal electrodes 9 are disposed in different positions (layers) in the second direction D2. Each of the internal electrodes 7 and 9 includes one end exposed to a corresponding side surface 3e.

(90) The external electrodes 5 are disposed at both end portions of the element body 3 in the third direction D3. Each of the external electrodes 5 is disposed on a corresponding side surface 3e side of the element body 3. The external electrode 5 includes electrode portions 5a, 5b, 5c, and 5e. The electrode portion 5a is disposed on the principal surface 3a. The electrode portion 5b is disposed on the principal surface 3b. The electrode portion 5c is disposed on each side surface 3c. The electrode portion 5e is disposed on the corresponding side surface 3e. The external electrode 5 is formed on the five surfaces, that is, the principal surfaces 3a and 3b, the pair of side surfaces 3c, and the pair of side surfaces 3e. The electrode portions 5a, 5b, 5c, and 5e adjacent to each other are connected to each other at a ridge of the element body 3, and are electrically connected to each other.

(91) The electrode portion 5e covers all the one ends exposed at the side surface 3e of the respective internal electrodes 7 and 9. The internal electrodes 7 and 9 are directly connected to a corresponding electrode portion 5e. The internal electrodes 7 and 9 are electrically connected to the respective external electrodes 5.

(92) As illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, the external electrode 5 includes a first electrode layer E1, a second electrode layer E2, a third electrode layer E3, and a fourth electrode layer E4. The fourth electrode layer E4 is the outermost layer of the external electrode 5.

(93) The electrode portion 5a includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The electrode portion 5a has a four-layer structure. In the electrode portion 5a, an entirety of the first electrode layer E1 is covered with the second electrode layer E2. The electrode portion 5b includes the first electrode layer E1, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The electrode portion 5b does not include the second electrode layer E2. The electrode portion 5b has a three-layer structure.

(94) The electrode portion 5c includes a region 5c.sub.1 and a region 5c.sub.2. The region 5c.sub.2 is located closer to the principal surface 3a than the region 5c.sub.1. In the present embodiment, the electrode portion 5c includes only two regions 5c.sub.1 and 5c.sub.2. The region 5c.sub.1 includes the first electrode layer E1, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 5c.sub.1 does not include the second electrode layer E2. The region 5c.sub.1 has a three-layer structure. The region 5c.sub.2 includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 5c.sub.2 has a four-layer structure.

(95) The electrode portion 5e includes a region 5e.sub.1 and a region 5e.sub.2. The region 5e.sub.2 is located closer to the principal surface 3a than the region 5e.sub.1. In the present embodiment, the electrode portion 5e includes only two regions 5e.sub.1 and 5e.sub.2. The region 5e.sub.1 includes the first electrode layer E1, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 5e.sub.1 does not include the second electrode layer E2. The region 5e.sub.1 has a three-layer structure. The region 5e.sub.2 includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4.

(96) The region 5e.sub.2 has a four-layer structure.

(97) The first electrode layer E1 is formed by sintering a conductive paste applied onto the surface of the element body 3. The first electrode layer E1 is a layer that is formed by sintering a metal component (metal powder) contained in the conductive paste. The first electrode layer E1 is a sintered metal layer. The first electrode layer E1 is a sintered metal layer formed on the element body 3. In the present embodiment, the first electrode layer E1 is a sintered metal layer made of Cu. The first electrode layer E1 may be a sintered metal layer made of Ni. The first electrode layer E1 contains a base metal. The conductive paste contains, for example, powder made of Cu or Ni, a glass component, an organic binder, and an organic solvent.

(98) The second electrode layer E2 is formed by curing a conductive resin paste applied onto the first electrode layer E1. The second electrode layer E2 is formed to cover a partial region of the first electrode layer E1. The partial region of the first electrode layer E1 is a region, in the first electrode layer E1, corresponding to the electrode portion 5a, the region 5c.sub.2, and the region 5e.sub.2. The first electrode layer E1 serves as an underlying metal layer for forming the second electrode layer E2. The second electrode layer E2 is a conductive resin layer formed on the first electrode layer E1. The conductive resin paste contains a thermosetting resin, a metal powder, and an organic solvent. As the metal powder, for example, Ag powder or Cu powder is used. As the thermosetting resin, for example, a phenolic resin, an acrylic resin, a silicone resin, an epoxy resin, or a polyimide resin is used.

(99) The third electrode layer E3 is formed on the second electrode layer E2 and on a portion of the first electrode layer E1 exposed from the second electrode layer E2 by plating method. In the present embodiment, the third electrode layer E3 is a Ni plating layer formed by Ni plating. The third electrode layer E3 may be an Sn plating layer, a Cu plating layer, or an Au plating layer. The third electrode layer E3 contains Ni, Sn, Cu, or Au.

(100) The fourth electrode layer E4 is formed on the third electrode layer E3 by plating method. In the present embodiment, the fourth electrode layer E4 is an Sn plating layer formed by Sn plating. The fourth electrode layer E4 may be a Cu plating layer or an Au plating layer. The fourth electrode layer E4 contains Sn, Cu, or Au. The third electrode layer E3 and fourth electrode layer E4 form a plating layer disposed on the second electrode layer E2. In the present embodiment, the plating layer disposed on the second electrode layer E2 has a two-layer structure.

(101) The first electrode layer E1 included in each of the electrode portions 5a, 5b, 5c, and 5e is integrally formed. The second electrode layer E2 included in each of the electrode portions 5a, 5c, and 5e is integrally formed. The third electrode layer E3 included in each of the electrode portions 5a, 5b, 5c, and 5e is integrally formed. The fourth electrode layer E4 included in each of the electrode portions 5a, 5b, 5c, and 5e is also integrally formed.

(102) A ratio (L2/L1) of a length L2 of the region 5c.sub.2 in the first direction D1 to a length L1 of the element body 3 in the first direction D1 is equal to or more than 0.2. A ratio (L3/L1) of a length L3 of the region 5e.sub.2 in the first direction D1 to the length L1 of the element body 3 is equal to or more than 0.2.

(103) The multilayer capacitor C1 is solder-mounted on an electronic device (e.g., a circuit board or an electronic component). In the multilayer capacitor C1, the principal surface 3a is arranged to constitute a mounting surface opposing the electronic device.

(104) As described above, in the first embodiment, the electrode portion 5a includes the second electrode layer E2 (conductive resin layer), and the region 5e.sub.2 included in the electrode portion 5e includes the second electrode layer E2 (conductive resin layer). Therefore, stress tends not to concentrate on an end edge of the external electrode 5, even in a case in which external force is applied onto the multilayer capacitor C1 through a solder fillet. The end edge of the external electrode 5 tends not to serve as an origination of a crack. Consequently, in the multilayer capacitor C1, occurrence of a crack in the element body 3 is suppressed.

(105) In the first embodiment, the region 5c.sub.2 included in the electrode portion 5c includes the second electrode layer E2 (conductive resin layer). Therefore, the stress tends not to concentrate on the end edge of the external electrode 5, even in a case in which the external electrode 5 includes the electrode portion 5c. Consequently, in the multilayer capacitor C1, occurrence of the crack in the element body 3 is reliably suppressed.

(106) The ratio (L3/L1) of the length L3 of the region 5e.sub.2 to the length L1 of the element body 3 is equal to or more than 0.2. Therefore, the stress further tends not to concentrate on the end edge of the external electrode 5. Consequently, in the multilayer capacitor C1, the occurrence of a crack in the element body 3 is further suppressed.

(107) The ratio (L2/L1) of the length L2 of the region 5c.sub.2 to the length L1 of the element body 3 is equal to or more than 0.2. Therefore, the stress further tends not to concentrate on the end edge of the external electrode 5. Consequently, in the multilayer capacitor C1, the occurrence of a crack in the element body 3 is further suppressed.

(108) Next, a configuration of a multilayer capacitor C2 according to another modification of the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 to 10. FIGS. 7 and 8 are plan views of a multilayer capacitor according to the present modification. FIGS. 9 and 10 are side views of the multilayer capacitor according to the present modification.

(109) As with the multilayer capacitor C1, the multilayer capacitor C2 includes the element body 3, the pair of external electrodes 5, the plurality of internal electrodes 7 (not illustrated), and the plurality of internal electrodes 9 (not illustrated). In the multilayer capacitor C2, a shape of the element body 3 is different from that of the multilayer capacitor C1.

(110) In the present modification, the length of the element body 3 in the second direction D2 is larger than the length of the element body 3 in the first direction D1, and larger than the length of the element body 3 in the third direction D3. The second direction D2 is a longitudinal direction of the element body 3. Also in the present modification, occurrence of a crack in the element body 3 is suppressed.

Second Embodiment

(111) A configuration of a multilayer feedthrough capacitor C3 according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 to 17. FIGS. 11 and 12 are plan views of a multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the second embodiment. FIGS. 13 and 14 are side views of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the second embodiment. FIGS. 15 to 17 are views illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the second embodiment. In the second embodiment, an electronic component is, for example, the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C3.

(112) As illustrated in FIGS. 11 to 14, the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C3 includes the element body 3, a pair of external electrodes 13, and a pair of external electrodes 15. The pair of external electrodes 13 and the pair of external electrodes 15 are disposed on the outer surface of the element body 3. The pair of external electrodes 5 and the pair of external electrodes 15 are separated from each other. The pair of external electrodes 13 functions as, for example, signal terminal electrodes, and the pair of external electrodes 15 functions as, for example, ground terminal electrodes.

(113) As illustrated in FIGS. 15 to 17, the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C3 includes a plurality of internal electrodes 17 and a plurality of internal electrodes 19. As with the internal electrodes 7 and 9, the internal electrodes 17 and 19 are made of a conductive material that is usually used as an internal electrode of a multilayer electronic component. Also in the second embodiment, the internal electrodes 7 and 9 are made of Ni.

(114) The internal electrodes 17 and the internal electrodes 19 are disposed in different positions (layers) in the first direction D1. The internal electrodes 17 and the internal electrodes 19 are alternately disposed in the element body 3 to oppose each other in the first direction D1 with an interval therebetween. Polarities of the internal electrodes 17 and the internal electrodes 19 are different from each other. In a case in which the lamination direction of the plurality of dielectric layers is the second direction D2, the internal electrodes 17 and the internal electrodes 19 are disposed in different positions (layers) in the second direction D2. Each of the internal electrodes 17 and 9 includes one end exposed to a corresponding side surface 3e. Both ends of the internal electrode 17 are exposed to the pair of side surfaces 3e. Both ends of the internal electrode 19 are exposed to the pair of side surfaces 3c.

(115) The external electrode 13 is disposed at end portion of the element body 3 in a third direction D3. The external electrode 13 includes a plurality of electrode portions 13a, 13b, 13c, and 13e. The electrode portion 13a is disposed on the principal surface 3a. The electrode portion 13b is disposed on the principal surface 3b. The electrode portion 13c is disposed on each side surface 3c. The electrode portion 13e is disposed on the corresponding side surface 3e. The external electrode 13 is formed on the five surfaces, that is, the principal surfaces 3a and 3b, the pair of side surfaces 3c, and the side surface 3e. The electrode portions 13a, 13b, 13c, and 13e adjacent to each other are connected to each other at a ridge of the element body 3, and are electrically connected to each other.

(116) The electrode portion 13e covers all the one ends exposed at the side surface 3e, of the internal electrodes 17. The internal electrodes 17 are directly connected to each electrode portion 13e. The internal electrodes 17 are electrically connected to the pair of external electrodes 13.

(117) As illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16, the external electrode 13 includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The fourth electrode layer E4 is the outermost layer of the external electrode 13.

(118) The electrode portion 13a includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The electrode portion 13a has a four-layer structure. In the electrode portion 13a, an entirety of the first electrode layer E1 is covered with the second electrode layer E2. The electrode portion 13b includes the first electrode layer E1, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The electrode portion 13b does not include the second electrode layer E2. The electrode portion 13b has a three-layer structure.

(119) The electrode portion 13c includes a region 13c.sub.1 and a region 13c.sub.2. The region 13c.sub.2 is located closer to the principal surface 3a than the region 13c.sub.1. In the present embodiment, the electrode portion 13c includes only two regions 13c.sub.1 and 13c.sub.2. The region 13c.sub.1 includes the first electrode layer E1, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 13c.sub.1 does not include the second electrode layer E2. The region 13c.sub.1 has a three-layer structure. The region 13c.sub.2 includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 13c.sub.2 has a four-layer structure.

(120) The electrode portion 13e includes a region 13e.sub.1 and a region 13e.sub.2. The region 13e.sub.2 is located closer to the principal surface 3a than the region 13e.sub.1. In the present embodiment, the electrode portion 13e includes only two regions 13e.sub.1 and 13e.sub.2. The region 13e.sub.1 includes the first electrode layer E1, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 13e.sub.1 does not include the second electrode layer E2. The region 13e.sub.1 has a three-layer structure. The region 13e.sub.2 includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 13e.sub.2 has a four-layer structure.

(121) A ratio (L4/L1) of a length L4 of the region 13c.sub.2 in the first direction D1 to the length L1 of the element body 3 is equal to or more than 0.2. A ratio (L5/L1) of a length L5 of the region 13e.sub.2 in the first direction D1 to the length L1 of the element body 3 is equal to or more than 0.2.

(122) The first electrode layer E1 included in each of the electrode portions 13a, 13b, 13c, and 13e is integrally formed. The second electrode layer E2 included in each of the electrode portions 13a, 13c, and 13e is integrally formed. The third electrode layer E3 included in each of the electrode portions 13a, 13b, 13c, and 13e is integrally formed. The fourth electrode layer E4 included in each of the electrode portions 13a, 13b, 13c, and 13e is also integrally formed.

(123) The external electrode 15 is disposed on a central portion of the element body 3 in the third direction D3. The external electrode 15 includes electrode portions 15a, 15b, and 15c. The electrode portion 15a is disposed on the principal surface 3a. The electrode portion 15b is disposed on the principal surface 3b. The electrode portions 15c is disposed on the side surface 3c. The external electrode 6 is formed on the three surfaces, that is, the pair of principal surfaces 3a and 3b, and the side surface 3c. The electrode portions 15a, 15b, and 15c adjacent to each other are connected to each other at a ridge of the element body 3, and are electrically connected to each other.

(124) The electrode portion 15c covers all the one ends exposed at the side surface 3c, of the internal electrodes 19. The internal electrodes 19 are directly connected to each electrode portion 15c. The internal electrodes 19 are electrically connected to the pair of external electrodes 15.

(125) As illustrated in FIG. 17, the external electrode 15 also includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The fourth electrode layer E4 is the outermost layer of the external electrode 15.

(126) The electrode portion 15a includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The electrode portion 15a has a four-layer structure. In the electrode portion 15a, an entirety of the first electrode layer E1 is covered with the second electrode layer E2. The electrode portion 15b includes the first electrode layer E1, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The electrode portion 15b does not include the second electrode layer E2. The electrode portion 15b has a three-layer structure.

(127) The electrode portion 15c includes a region 15c.sub.1 and a region 15c.sub.2. The region 15c.sub.2 is located closer to the principal surface 3a than the region 15c.sub.1. In the present embodiment, the electrode portion 15c includes only two regions 15c.sub.1 and 15c.sub.2. The region 15c.sub.1 includes the first electrode layer E1, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 15c.sub.1 does not include the second electrode layer E2. The region 15c.sub.1 has a three-layer structure. The region 15c.sub.2 includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 15c.sub.2 has a four-layer structure.

(128) A ratio (L6/L1) of a length L6 of the region 15c.sub.2 in the first direction D1 to the length L1 of the element body 3 is equal to or more than 0.2. The first electrode layer E1 included in each of the electrode portions 15a, 15b, and 15c is integrally formed. The second electrode layer E2 included in each of the electrode portions 15a and 15c is integrally formed. The third electrode layer E3 included in each of the electrode portions 15a, 15b, and 15c is integrally formed. The fourth electrode layer E4 included in each of the electrode portions 15a, 15b, and 15c is also integrally formed.

(129) The multilayer feedthrough capacitor C3 is also solder-mounted on the electronic device. In the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C3, the principal surface 3a is arranged to constitute a mounting surface opposing the electronic device.

(130) As described above, in the second embodiment, the electrode portions 13a and 15a include the second electrode layer E2 (conductive resin layer), and the regions 13c.sub.2 and 15c.sub.2 included in the electrode portions 13c and 15c include the second electrode layer E2 (conductive resin layer). Therefore, stress tends not to concentrate on end edges of the external electrodes 13 and 15, even in a case in which external force is applied onto the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C3 through a solder fillet. The end edges of the external electrodes 13 and 15 tend not to serve as an origination of a crack. Consequently, in the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C3, occurrence of a crack in the element body 3 is suppressed.

(131) The ratio (L5/L1) of the length L5 of the region 13e.sub.2 to the length L1 of the element body 3 is equal to or more than 0.2. Therefore, the stress further tends not to concentrate on the end edge of the external electrode 13. Consequently, in the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C3, the occurrence of a crack in the element body 3 is further suppressed.

(132) The ratio (L4/L1) of the length L4 of the region 13c.sub.2 to the length L1 of the element body 3 is equal to or more than 0.2. Therefore, the stress further tends not to concentrate on the end edge of the external electrode 13. Consequently, in the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C3, the occurrence of a crack in the element body 3 is further suppressed.

(133) In the second embodiment, the ratio (L6/L1) of the length L6 of the region 15c.sub.2 to the length L1 of the element body 3 is equal to or more than 0.2. Therefore, the stress further tends not to concentrate on the end edge of the external electrode 15. Consequently, in the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C3, the occurrence of a crack in the element body 3 is further suppressed.

Third Embodiment

(134) A configuration of a multilayer capacitor C4 according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 18 to 22. FIGS. 18 and 19 are plan views of a multilayer capacitor according to the third embodiment. FIGS. 20 and 21 are side views of the multilayer capacitor according to the third embodiment. FIG. 22 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of external electrodes. In the third embodiment, an electronic component is, for example, the multilayer capacitor C4.

(135) As illustrated in FIGS. 18 to 21, the multilayer capacitor C4 includes the element body 3, a plurality of external electrodes 21, and a plurality of internal electrodes (not illustrated). The plurality of external electrodes 21 is disposed on the outer surface of the element body 3. The plurality of external electrodes 21 is separated from each other. In the present embodiment, the multilayer capacitor C4 includes eight external electrodes 21. The number of the external electrodes 21 is not limited to eight.

(136) Each of the external electrodes 21 includes electrode portions 21a, 21b, and 21c. The electrode portion 21a is disposed on the principal surface 3a. The electrode portion 21b is disposed on the principal surface 3b. The electrode portion 21c is disposed on the side surface 3c. The external electrode 21 is formed on the three surfaces, that is, the principal surfaces 3a and 3b and the side surfaces 3c. The electrode portions 21a, 21b, and 21c adjacent to each other are connected to each other at a ridge of the element body 3, and are electrically connected to each other.

(137) The electrode portion 21c covers all one ends exposed at the side surface 3c, of the respective internal electrodes. The electrode portion 21c is directly connected to the respective internal electrodes. The external electrode 21 is electrically connected to the respective internal electrodes.

(138) As illustrated in FIG. 22, the external electrode 21 includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The fourth electrode layer E4 is the outermost layer of the external electrode 21.

(139) The electrode portion 21a includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The electrode portion 21a has a four-layer structure. In the electrode portion 21a, an entirety of the first electrode layer E1 is covered with the second electrode layer E2. The electrode portion 21b includes the first electrode layer E1, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The electrode portion 21b does not include the second electrode layer E2. The electrode portion 21b has a three-layer structure.

(140) The electrode portion 21c includes a region 21c.sub.1 and a region 21c.sub.2. The region 21c.sub.2 is located closer to the principal surface 3a than the region 21c.sub.1. In the present embodiment, the electrode portion 21c includes only two regions 21c.sub.1 and 21c.sub.2. The region 21c.sub.1 includes the first electrode layer E1, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 21c.sub.1 does not include the second electrode layer E2. The region 21c.sub.1 has a three-layer structure. The region 21c.sub.2 includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 21c.sub.2 has a four-layer structure.

(141) A ratio (L7/L1) of a length L7 of the region 21c.sub.2 in the first direction D1 to the length L1 of the element body 3 is equal to or more than 0.2. The first electrode layer E1 included in each of the electrode portions 21a, 21b, and 21c is integrally formed. The second electrode layer E2 included in each of the electrode portions 21a and 21c is integrally formed. The third electrode layer E3 included in each of the electrode portions 21a, 21b, and 21c is integrally formed. The fourth electrode layer E4 included in each of the electrode portions 21a, 21b, and 21c is also integrally formed.

(142) The multilayer capacitor C4 is also solder-mounted on the electronic device. In the multilayer capacitor C4, the principal surface 3a is arranged to constitute a mounting surface opposing the electronic device.

(143) As described above, in the third embodiment, the electrode portion 21a includes the second electrode layer E2 (conductive resin layer), and the region 21c.sub.2 included in the electrode portion 21c includes the second electrode layer E2 (conductive resin layer). Therefore, stress tends not to concentrate on an end edge of the external electrode 21, even in a case in which external force is applied onto the multilayer capacitor C4 through a solder fillet. The end edge of the external electrode 21 tends not to serve as an origination of a crack. Consequently, in the multilayer capacitor C4, occurrence of a crack in the element body 3 is suppressed.

(144) The ratio (L7/L1) of the length L7 of the region 21c.sub.2 to the length L1 of the element body 3 is equal to or more than 0.2. Therefore, the stress further tends not to concentrate on the end edge of the external electrode 21. Consequently, in the multilayer capacitor C4, the occurrence of a crack in the element body 3 is further suppressed.

Fourth Embodiment

(145) A configuration of a multilayer capacitor C5 according to a fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 23 to 27B. FIGS. 23 and 24 are plan views of a multilayer capacitor according to the fourth embodiment. FIGS. 25 and 26 are side views of the multilayer capacitor according to the fourth embodiment FIGS. 27A and 27B are views illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of external electrodes. In the fourth embodiment, an electronic component is, for example, the multilayer capacitor C5.

(146) As illustrated in FIGS. 23 to 26, the multilayer capacitor C5 includes the element body 3, a plurality of external electrodes 31, and a plurality of internal electrodes (not illustrated). The plurality of external electrodes 31 is disposed on the outer surface of the element body 3. The plurality of external electrodes 31 is separated from each other. In the present embodiment, the multilayer capacitor C5 includes four external electrodes 31.

(147) The length of the element body 3 in the first direction D1 is smaller than the length of the element body 3 in the second direction D2, and smaller than the length of the element body 3 in the third direction D3. The length of the element body 3 in the second direction D2 and the length of the element body 3 in the third direction D3 are equivalent.

(148) Each external electrode 31 is disposed at each corner portion of the element body 3. Each of the external electrodes 31 includes electrode portions 31a, 31b, 31c, and 31e. The electrode portion 31a is disposed on the principal surface 3a. The electrode portion 31b is disposed on the principal surface 3b. The electrode portion 31c is disposed on the side surface 3c. The electrode portion 31e is disposed on the side surface 3e. The external electrode 31 is formed on the four surfaces, that is, the principal surfaces 3a and 3b, the side surface 3c, and the side surface 3e. The electrode portions 31a, 31b, 31c, and 13e adjacent to each other are connected to each other at a ridge of the element body 3, and are electrically connected to each other.

(149) The electrode portions 31c and 31e covers all the one ends exposed at the side surfaces 3c and 3e, of the respective internal electrodes. The electrode portions 31c and 31e are directly connected to the respective internal electrodes. The external electrode 31 is electrically connected to the respective internal electrodes.

(150) As illustrated in FIGS. 27A and 27B, the external electrode 31 includes a first electrode layer E1, a second electrode layer E2, a third electrode layer E3, and a fourth electrode layer E4. The fourth electrode layer E4 is the outermost layer of the external electrode 31.

(151) The electrode portion 31a includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The electrode portion 31a has a four-layer structure. In the electrode portion 31a, an entirety of the first electrode layer E1 is covered with the second electrode layer E2. The electrode portion 31b includes the first electrode layer E1, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The electrode portion 31b does not include the second electrode layer E2. The electrode portion 31b has a three-layer structure.

(152) The electrode portion 31c includes a region 31c.sub.1 and a region 31c.sub.2. The region 31c.sub.2 is located closer to the principal surface 3a than the region 31c.sub.1. In the present embodiment, the electrode portion 31c includes only two regions 31c.sub.1 and 31c.sub.2. The region 31c.sub.1 includes the first electrode layer E1, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 31c.sub.1 does not include the second electrode layer E2. The region 31c.sub.1 has a three-layer structure. The region 31c.sub.2 includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 31c.sub.2 has a four-layer structure.

(153) The electrode portion 31e includes a region 31e.sub.1 and a region 31e.sub.2. The region 31e.sub.2 is located closer to the principal surface 3a than the region 31e.sub.1. In the present embodiment, the electrode portion 31e includes only two regions 31e.sub.1 and 31e.sub.2. The region 31e.sub.1 includes the first electrode layer E1, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 31e.sub.1 does not include the second electrode layer E2. The region 31e.sub.1 has a three-layer structure. The region 31e.sub.2 includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 31e.sub.2 has a four-layer structure.

(154) A ratio (L8/L1) of a length L8 of the region 31c.sub.2 in the first direction D1 to the length L1 of the element body 3 is equal to or more than 0.2. A ratio (L9/L1) of a length L9 of the region 31e.sub.2 in the first direction D1 to the length L1 of the element body 3 is equal to or more than 0.2.

(155) The first electrode layer E1 included in each of the electrode portions 31a, 31b, 31c, and 31e is integrally formed. The second electrode layer E2 included in each of the electrode portions 31a, 31c, and 31e is integrally formed. The third electrode layer E3 included in each of the electrode portions 31a, 31b, 31c, and 31e is integrally formed. The fourth electrode layer E4 included in each of the electrode portions 31a, 31b, 31c, and 31e is also integrally formed.

(156) The multilayer capacitor C5 is also solder-mounted on the electronic device. In the multilayer capacitor C5, the principal surface 3a is arranged to constitute a mounting surface opposing the electronic device.

(157) As described above, in the fourth embodiment, the electrode portion 31a includes the second electrode layer E2 (conductive resin layer), and the regions 31c.sub.2 and 31e.sub.2 included in the electrode portions 31c and 31e include the second electrode layer E2 (conductive resin layer). Therefore, stress tends not to concentrate on an end edge of the external electrode 31, even in a case in which external force is applied onto the multilayer capacitor C5 through a solder fillet. The end edge of the external electrode 31 tends not to serve as an origination of a crack. Consequently, in the multilayer capacitor C5, occurrence of a crack in the element body 3 is suppressed.

(158) The ratio (L8/L1) of the length L8 of the region 31c.sub.2 to the length L1 of the element body 3 is equal to or more than 0.2. The ratio (L9/L1) of the length L9 of the region 31e.sub.2 to the length L1 of the element body 3 is equal to or more than 0.2. Therefore, the stress further tends not to concentrate on the end edge of the external electrode 31. Consequently, in the multilayer capacitor C5, the occurrence of a crack in the element body 3 is further suppressed.

Fifth Embodiment

(159) A configuration of a multilayer feedthrough capacitor C6 according to a fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 28 to 32. FIG. 28 is a plan view of a multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 29 is a side view of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the fifth embodiment. FIGS. 30 to 32 are views illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the fifth embodiment. In the fifth embodiment, an electronic component is, for example, the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C6.

(160) As illustrated in FIGS. 28 to 32, the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C6 includes the element body 3, the pair of external electrodes 13, the pair of external electrodes 15, the plurality of internal electrodes 17, and the plurality of internal electrodes 19. The multilayer feedthrough capacitor C6 is also solder-mounted on the electronic device. In the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C6, the principal surface 3a is arranged to constitute a mounting surface opposing the electronic device.

(161) As illustrated in FIGS. 30 and 31, the external electrode 13 includes the first electrode layer E1, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. In the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C6, the external electrode 13 does not include the second electrode layer E2. Each of the electrode portions 13a, 13c, and 13e includes the first electrode layer E1, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. Each of the electrode portions 13a, 13c, and 13e has a three-layer structure. The fourth electrode layer E4 is the outermost layer of the external electrode 13.

(162) As illustrated in FIG. 32, as is the case in the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C3, the external electrode 15 includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4.

(163) The multilayer feedthrough capacitor C6 includes a pair of insulating films I. The insulating film I is made of a material having electrical insulation properties (e.g., an insulating resin or glass). In the fifth embodiment, the insulating film I is made of an insulating resin (e.g., an epoxy resin).

(164) The insulating film I covers a part of the external electrode 13 and a part of the element body 3, along an end edge 13a.sub.e of the electrode portion 13a and an end edge 13c.sub.e of the electrode portion 13c. The electrode portion 13b, the electrode portion 13e, and the principal surface 3b are not covered with the insulating film I.

(165) Along the end edge 13a.sub.e and only a part of the end edge 13c.sub.e (a portion near the principal surface 3a in the first direction D1), the insulating film I continuously covers the end edge 13a.sub.e and only the part of the end edge 13c.sub.e, and continuously covers the principal surface 3a and the side surface 3c. The insulating film I includes film portions Ia, Ib, Ic, and Id. The film portion Ia is located on the electrode portion 13a. The film portion Ib is located on the electrode portion 13c. The film portion Ic is located on the principal surface 3a. The film portion Id is located on the side surface 3c. The film portions Ia, Ib, Ic, and Id each are integrally formed.

(166) A surface of the electrode portion 13a includes a region covered with the insulating film I (film portion Ia) along the end edge 13a.sub.e, and a region exposed from the insulating film I. The region exposed from the insulating film I is located closer to the end surface 3e than the region covered with the film portion Ia. A surface of the electrode portion 13c includes a region covered with the insulating film I (film portion Ib) along the end edge 13c.sub.e, and a region exposed from the insulating film I.

(167) The principal surface 3a includes a region covered with the insulating film I (film portion Ic) along the end edge 13a.sub.e, and a region exposed from the insulating film I. The side surface 3c includes a region covered with the insulating film I (film portion Id) along the end edge 13c.sub.e, and a region exposed from the insulating film I.

(168) In the fifth embodiment, a ratio (L11/L1) of each length L11 of the film portion Ib and the film portion Id in the first direction D1 to the length L1 of the element body 3 is 0.1 or more to 0.4 or less. A ratio (L13/L12) of a length L13 of the film portion Ia in the third direction D3 to a length L12 of the electrode portion 13a in the third direction D3 is equal to or more than 0.3.

(169) As described above, in the fifth embodiment, the insulating film I continuously covers the end edge 13a.sub.e and only the part of the end edge 13c.sub.e. Therefore, a solder fillet does not reach the end edge 13a.sub.e and the part of the end edge 13c.sub.e (an end edge of a portion located near the principal surface 3a, in the electrode portion 13c). Consequently, even in a case in which external force is applied onto the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C6 through the solder fillet, stress tends not to concentrate on the end edges 13a.sub.e and 13c.sub.e. The end edges 13a.sub.e and 13c.sub.e tend not to serve as an origination of a crack.

(170) In the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C6, the electrode portion 15a include the second electrode layer E2, and the region 15c.sub.2 included in the electrode portion 15c includes the second electrode layer E2. Therefore, stress tends not to concentrate on end edges of the external electrode 15, even in a case in which external force is applied onto the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C6 through the solder fillet. The end edge of the external electrode 15 tends not to serve as an origination of a crack.

(171) Consequently, in the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C6, occurrence of a crack in the element body 3 is suppressed.

(172) In the fifth embodiment, the insulating film I continuously covers the principal surface 3a and the side surface 3c along the end edge 13a, and only the part of the end edge 13c.sub.e. Therefore, the end edge 13a, and the part of the end edge 13c, are reliably covered with the insulating film I. Consequently, in the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C6, the end edges 13a.sub.e and 13c.sub.e further tend not to serve as the origination of the crack.

(173) In the fifth embodiment, the entire electrode portion 13b is exposed from the insulating film I. Therefore, the solder fillet SF is formed on the electrode portion 13b. Consequently, mounting strength of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C6 is ensured.

(174) In the fifth embodiment, the ratio (L11/L1) of the length L11 to the length L1 of the element body 3 is 0.1 or more to 0.4 or less. In this case, the effect of suppressing occurrence of cracks is ensured, and a size of the insulating film I is reduced. Therefore, a cost of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C6 is reduced. In a case in which the ratio (L11/L1) is less than 0.1, the stress acting on the end edges 13a, and 13c.sub.e is large. The end edges 13a.sub.e and 13c.sub.e tend to serve as the origination of the crack.

(175) In the fifth embodiment, the ratio (L13/L12) of the length L13 of the film portion Ia to the length L12 of the electrode portion 13a is equal to or more than 0.3. In this case, the stress further tends not to concentrate on the end edge 13a.sub.e. Therefore, occurrence of the crack in the element body 3 is further suppressed. In a case in which the ratio (L13/L12) is less than 0.3, the stress acting on the end edge 13a.sub.e is large. The end edge 13a.sub.e tends to serve as the origination of the crack.

(176) Next, a configuration of a multilayer feedthrough capacitor C7 according to a modification of the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 33 to 35. FIGS. 33 and 35 are plan views of a multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the present modification. FIG. 35 is a side view of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the present modification.

(177) As with the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C6, the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C7 includes the element body 3, the pair of external electrodes 13, the pair of external electrodes 15, the plurality of internal electrodes 17 (not illustrated), and the plurality of internal electrodes 19 (not illustrated). In the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C7, a shape of the insulating film I is different from that of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C6.

(178) As illustrated in FIGS. 33 to 35, the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C7 includes the pair of insulating films I. The insulating film I covers a part of the external electrode 13 and a part of the element body 3, along the end edge 13a.sub.e of the electrode portion 13a, an end edge 13b.sub.e of the electrode portion 13b, and the end edge 13c.sub.e of the electrode portion 13c. The electrode portion 13e is not covered with the insulating film I.

(179) Along all of the end edge 13a.sub.e, the end edge 13b.sub.e, and the end edge 13c.sub.e, the insulating film I continuously covers the end edge 13a.sub.e, the end edge 13b.sub.e, and the end edge 13c.sub.e, and continuously covers the principal surface 3a, the principal surface 3b, and the side surface 3c. The insulating film I includes film portions Ia, Ib, Ic, Id, Ie, and If. The film portion Ia is located on the electrode portion 13a. The film portion Ib is located on the electrode portion 13c. The film portion Ic is located on the principal surface 3a. The film portion Id is located on the side surface 3c. The film portion Ie is located on the electrode portion 13b. The film portion If is located on the principal surface 3b. The film portions Ia, Ib, Ic, Id, Ie, and If each are integrally formed.

(180) The surface of the electrode portion 13a includes a region covered with the insulating film I (film portion Ia) along the end edge 13a.sub.e, and a region exposed from the insulating film I. The region exposed from the insulating film I, on the surface of the electrode portion 13a, is located closer to the side surface 3e than the region covered with the film portion Ia. The surface of the electrode portion 13c includes a region covered with the insulating film I (film portion Ib) along the end edge 13c.sub.e, and a region exposed from the insulating film I. The region exposed from the insulating film I, on the surface of the electrode portion 13c, is located closer to the side surface 3e than the region covered with the film portion Ib. A surface of the electrode portion 13b includes a region covered with the insulating film I (film portion Ie) along the end edge 13b.sub.e, and a region exposed from the insulating film I. The region exposed from the insulating film I, on the surface of the electrode portion 13b, is located closer to the side surface 3e than the region covered with the film portion Ie.

(181) The principal surface 3a includes a region covered with the insulating film I (film portion Ic) along the end edge 13a.sub.e, and a region exposed from the insulating film I. The side surface 3c includes a region covered with the insulating film I (film portion Id) along the end edge 13c.sub.e, and a region exposed from the insulating film I. The principal surface 3b includes a region covered with the insulating film I (film portion If) along the end edge 13b.sub.e, and a region exposed from the insulating film I.

(182) In the present modification, the insulating film I continuously covers all of the end edge 13a.sub.e, the end edge 13b.sub.e, and the end edge 13c.sub.e. Therefore, occurrence of a crack in the element body 3 is reliably suppressed.

(183) The insulating film I continuously covers the principal surface 3a, the principal surface 3b, and the side surface 3c along all of the end edge 13a.sub.e, the end edge 13b.sub.e, and the end edge 13c.sub.e. Therefore, all of the end edge 13a.sub.e, the end edge 13b.sub.e, and the end edge 13c.sub.e are reliably covered with the insulating film I. Consequently, the end edges 13a.sub.e and 13c.sub.e further tend not to serve as the origination of the crack.

Sixth Embodiment

(184) A configuration of an electronic component device ECD1 according to a sixth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 36. FIG. 36 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the electronic component device according to the sixth embodiment.

(185) As illustrated in FIG. 36, the electronic component device ECD1 includes the multilayer capacitor C1 and an electronic device ED. The electronic device ED includes, for example, a circuit board or an electronic component.

(186) The multilayer capacitor C1 is solder-mounted on the electronic device ED. The electronic device ED includes a principal surface EDa and two pad electrodes PE1 and PE2. Each of the pad electrodes PE1 and PE2 is disposed on the principal surface EDa. The two pad electrodes PE1 and PE2 are separated from each other. The multilayer capacitor C1 is disposed on the electronic device ED in such a manner that the principal surface EDa and the principal surface 3a that is the mounting surface oppose each other.

(187) In a case in which the multilayer capacitor C1 is solder-mounted, molten solder wets to the external electrodes 5 (fourth electrode layers E4). Solder fillets SF are formed on the external electrodes 5 by solidification of the wet solder. The external electrodes 5 and the pad electrodes PE1 and PE2 that correspond to each other are coupled via the solder fillets SF.

(188) The solder fillet SF is formed on the region 5e.sub.1 and region 5e.sub.2 of the electrode portion 5e. In addition to the region 5e.sub.2, the region 5e.sub.1 that does not include the second electrode layer E2 is also coupled to the corresponding pad electrode PE1 or PE2 via the solder fillet SF. Although illustration is omitted, the solder fillet SF is also formed on the region 5c.sub.1 and region 5c.sub.2 of the electrode portion 5c.

(189) In the electronic component device ECD1, a region on which the solder fillet SF is formed is large, as compared with in an electronic component device where the solder fillet SF is formed only on the regions 5e.sub.2 of the electrode portion 5e. Therefore, mounting strength of the multilayer capacitor C1 is ensured.

(190) The region 5e.sub.2 protrudes in the second direction D2 and the third direction D3 more than the region 5e.sub.1. Therefore, a step is formed at a boundary between the region 5e.sub.2 and the region 5e.sub.1. In a vicinity of the boundary between the region 5e.sub.2 and the region 5e.sub.1, a surface area of the region 5e.sub.1 is smaller than a surface area of the region 5e.sub.2. Therefore, a path of the molten solder wetting is small. Consequently, the molten solder tends to wet from the region 5e.sub.2 to the region 5e.sub.1, and the solder tends to accumulate on the step formed by the region 5e.sub.2 and the region 5e.sub.1. A solder pool is formed on the step formed by the region 5e.sub.2 and the region 5e.sub.1.

(191) In the electronic component device ECD1 illustrated in FIG. 36, the solder pool is formed on the step formed by the region 5e.sub.2 and the region 5e.sub.1. In the electronic component device ECD1, a volume of the solder fillet formed on the region 5e.sub.2 and the pad electrode PE1 or PE2 is small, as compared with in an electronic component device in which no step is formed at the boundary between the region 5e.sub.2 and the region 5e.sub.1. Therefore, force acting on the multilayer capacitor C1 from the solder fillet SF is small. Stress concentrating on the end edge of the first electrode layer E1 located on the main surface 3a arranged to constitute the mounting surface is also small. Consequently, the end edge of the first electrode layer E1 tends not to serve as an origination of a crack. Occurrence of a crack in the element body 3 is suppressed.

(192) In the electronic component device ECD1, the amount of solder wetting on the region 5e.sub.1 is large, as compared with in the electronic component device in which no step is formed at the boundary between the region 5e.sub.2 and the region 5e.sub.1. Therefore, in the electronic component device ECD1, a region formed with the solder fillet SF is large. Consequently, the mounting strength of the multilayer capacitor C1 is improved.

(193) The step formed by the region 5e.sub.2 and the region 5e.sub.1 includes the second electrode layer E2 (conductive resin layer). Therefore, the solder pool formed on the step that is formed by the region 5e.sub.2 and the region 5e.sub.1 tends not to serve as the origination of a crack. Consequently, a crack tends not to occur in the external electrode 5.

(194) As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 4, the region 5c.sub.2 protrudes in the second direction D2 and the third direction D3 more than the region 5c.sub.1. Therefore, a step is formed at a boundary between the region 5c.sub.2 and the region 5c.sub.1. In a vicinity of the boundary between the region 5c.sub.2 and the region 5c.sub.1, a surface area of the region 5c.sub.1 is smaller than a surface area of the region 5c.sub.2. Therefore, a path of the molten solder wetting is small. Consequently, the molten solder tends to wet from the region 5c.sub.2 to the region 5c.sub.1, and the solder tends to accumulate on the step formed by the region 5c.sub.2 and the region 5c.sub.1. Although illustration is omitted, a solder pool is formed on the step formed by the region 5c.sub.2 and the region 5c.sub.1.

(195) In the electronic component device ECD1, the solder pool is formed on the step formed by the region 5c.sub.2 and the region 5c.sub.1. In the electronic component device ECD1, a volume of the solder fillet formed on the region 5c.sub.2 and the pad electrode PE1 or PE2 is small, as compared with in an electronic component device in which no step is formed at the boundary between the region 5c.sub.2 and the region 5c.sub.1. Therefore, force acting on the multilayer capacitor C1 from the solder fillet SF is small. Stress concentrating on the end edge of the first electrode layer E1 located on the main surface 3a arranged to constitute the mounting surface is also small. Consequently, the end edge of the first electrode layer E1 tends not to serve as an origination of a crack. Occurrence of a crack in the element body 3 is suppressed.

(196) In the electronic component device ECD1, the amount of solder wetting on the region 5c.sub.1 is large, as compared with in the electronic component device in which no step is formed at the boundary between the region 5c.sub.2 and the region 5c.sub.1, and thus a region formed with the solder fillet SF is large. Consequently, the mounting strength of the multilayer capacitor C1 is further improved.

(197) The step formed by the region 5c.sub.2 and the region 5c.sub.1 includes the second electrode layer E2 (conductive resin layer). Therefore, the solder pool formed on the step that is formed by the region 5c.sub.2 and the region 5c.sub.1 tends not to serve as the origination of a crack. Consequently, the crack further tends not to occur in the external electrode 5.

(198) The ratio (L3/L1) of the length L3 of the region 5e.sub.2 to the length L1 of the element body 3 may be equal to or less than 0.8. In a case in which the ratio (L3/L1) is equal to or less than 0.8, the solder pool is reliably formed on the step formed by the region 5e.sub.2 and the region 5e.sub.1, as compared with in a case in which the ratio (L3/L1) is more than 0.8.

(199) The ratio (L2/L1) of the length L2 of the region 5c.sub.2 to the length L1 of the element body 3 may be equal to or less than 0.8. In a case in which the ratio (L2/L1) is equal to or less than 0.8, the solder pool is reliably formed on the step formed by the region 5c.sub.2 and the region 5c.sub.1, as compared with in a case in which the ratio (L2/L1) is more than 0.8.

(200) The electronic component device ECD1 may include the multilayer capacitor C2, the multilayer capacitor C4, or the multilayer capacitor C5 in place of the multilayer capacitor C1. The electronic component device ECD1 may include the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C3, the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C6, or the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C7 in place of the multilayer capacitor C1.

(201) In a case in which the electronic component device ECD1 includes the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C3, the solder fillet SF is formed on the region 13e.sub.1 and region 13e.sub.2 of the electrode portion 13e. Furthermore, the solder fillet SF is also formed on the region 15c.sub.1 and region 15c.sub.2 of the electrode portion 15c.

(202) In a case in which the electronic component device ECD1 includes the multilayer capacitor C4, the solder fillet SF is formed on the region 21c.sub.1 and region 21c.sub.2 of the electrode portion 21c. In a case in which the electronic component device ECD1 includes the multilayer capacitor C5, the solder fillet SF is formed on the regions 31c.sub.1 and 31e.sub.1 and regions 31c.sub.2 and 31e.sub.2 of the electrode portions 31c and 31e.

(203) In a case in which the electronic component device ECD1 includes the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C6 or the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C7, the solder fillet SF is formed on the region 15c.sub.1 and region 15c.sub.2 of the electrode portion 15c. Furthermore, the solder fillet SF is also formed on the electrode portion 13e.

(204) As illustrated in FIGS. 37 and 38, in the multilayer capacitor C1, a width of the region 5c.sub.2 in a third direction D3 may increase with an increase in distance from the region 5c.sub.1. In this case, molten solder tends to wet from the region 5c.sub.2 to the region 5c.sub.1. Therefore, the occurrence of a crack in the element body 3 is further suppressed and the mounting strength is improved. As illustrated in FIGS. 39 and 40, in the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C3, a width of the region 13c.sub.2 in a third direction D3 may increase with an increase in distance from the region 13c.sub.1. In this case, molten solder tends to wet from the region 13c.sub.2 to the region 13c.sub.1. Therefore, the occurrence of the crack in the element body 3 is further suppressed and the mounting strength is improved.

(205) The multilayer feedthrough capacitor C3 may include one external electrode 15. In this case, the electrode portion 15a extends in the second direction D2 on the principal surface 3a. In this modification, an entirety of the first electrode layer E1 is covered with the second electrode layer E2 in the electrode portion 5a.

Seventh Embodiment

(206) A configuration of a multilayer feedthrough capacitor C101 according to a seventh embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 42 to 48. FIGS. 42 and 43 are plan views of a multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the seventh embodiment. FIG. 44 is a side view of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the seventh embodiment. FIG. 45 is a end view of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the seventh embodiment. FIGS. 46, 47, and 48 are views illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the seventh embodiment. In the seventh embodiment, an electronic component is, for example, the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C101.

(207) As illustrated in FIG. 42, the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C101 includes the element body 103, a pair of external electrodes 105, and one external electrode 106. The pair of external electrodes 105 and the one external electrode 106 are disposed on an outer surface of the element body 103. The pair of external electrodes 105 and the external electrode 106 are separated from each other. The pair of external electrodes 105 functions as, for example, signal terminal electrodes. The external electrode 106 functions as, for example, a ground terminal electrode.

(208) The element body 103 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The element body 103 includes a pair of principal surfaces 103a and 103b opposing each other, a pair of side surfaces 103c opposing each other, and a pair of end surfaces 103e opposing each other. The pair of principal surfaces 103a and 103b and the pair of side surfaces 103c have a rectangular shape. The direction in which the pair of principal surfaces 103a and 103b opposes each other is a first direction D101. The direction in which the pair of side surfaces 103c opposes each other is a second direction D102. The direction in which the pair of end surfaces 103e opposes each other is a third direction D103. The rectangular parallelepiped shape includes a rectangular parallelepiped shape in which corners and ridges are chamfered, and a rectangular parallelepiped shape in which the corners and ridges are rounded.

(209) The first direction D101 is a direction orthogonal to the respective principal surfaces 103a and 103b and is orthogonal to the second direction D102. The third direction D103 is a direction parallel to the respective principal surfaces 103a and 103b and the respective side surfaces 103c, and is orthogonal to the first direction D101 and the second direction D102. The second direction D102 is orthogonal to the respective side surfaces 103c. The third direction D103 is orthogonal to the respective end surfaces 103e. In the seventh embodiment, a length of the element body 103 in the third direction D103 is larger than a length of the element body 103 in the first direction D101, and larger than a length of the element body 103 in the second direction D102. The third direction D103 is a longitudinal direction of the element body 103.

(210) The pair of side surfaces 103c extends in the first direction D101 to couple the pair of principal surfaces 103a and 103b. The pair of side surfaces 103c also extends in the third direction D103. The pair of end surfaces 103e extends in the first direction D101 to couple the pair of principal surfaces 103a and 103b. The pair of end surfaces 103e also extends in the second direction D102.

(211) The element body 103 includes a pair of ridge portions 103g, a pair of ridge portions 103h, four ridge portions 103i, a pair of ridge portions 103j, and a pair of ridge portions 103k. The ridge portion 103g is located between the end surface 103e and the principal surface 103a. The ridge portion 103h is located between the end surface 103e and the principal surface 103b. The ridge portion 103i is located between the end surface 103e and the side surface 103c. The ridge portion 103j is located between the principal surface 103a and the side surface 103c. The ridge portion 103k is located between the principal surface 103b and the side surface 103c. In the present embodiment, each of the ridge portions 103g, 103h, 103i, 103j, and 103k is rounded to curve. The element body 103 is subject to what is called a round chamfering process.

(212) The end surface 103e and the principal surface 103a are indirectly adjacent to each other with the ridge portion 103g therebetween. The end surface 103e and the principal surface 103b are indirectly adjacent to each other with the ridge portion 103h therebetween. The end surface 103e and the side surface 103c are indirectly adjacent to each other with the ridge portion 103i therebetween. The principal surface 103a and the side surface 103c are indirectly adjacent to each other with the ridge portion 103j therebetween. The principal surface 103b and the side surface 103c are indirectly adjacent to each other with the ridge portion 103k therebetween.

(213) The element body 103 is configured by laminating a plurality of dielectric layers in the first direction D101. The element body 103 includes the plurality of laminated dielectric layers. In the element body 103, a lamination direction of the plurality of dielectric layers coincides with the first direction D101. The first direction D101 is the direction in which the pair of principal surfaces 103a and 103b opposes each other. Each dielectric layer includes, for example, a sintered body of a ceramic green sheet containing a dielectric material. As the dielectric material, for example, a dielectric ceramic of BaTiO.sub.3 base, Ba(Ti,Zr)O.sub.3 base, or (Ba,Ca)TiO.sub.3 base is used. In an actual element body 103, each of the dielectric layers is integrated to such an extent that a boundary between the dielectric layers cannot be visually recognized. In the element body 103, the lamination direction of the plurality of dielectric layers may coincide with the second direction D102.

(214) The multilayer feedthrough capacitor C101 is solder-mounted on an electronic device (e.g., a circuit board or an electronic component). In the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C101, the principal surface 103a is arranged to constitute a mounting surface opposing the electronic device.

(215) As illustrated in FIGS. 46, 47, and 48, the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C101 includes a plurality of internal electrodes 107 and a plurality of internal electrodes 109. Each of the internal electrodes 107 and 109 is an internal conductor disposed in the element body 103. Each of the internal electrodes 107 and 109 is made of a conductive material that is usually used as an internal electrode of a multilayer electronic component. As the conductive material, a base metal (e.g., Ni or Cu) is used. The internal electrodes 107 and 109 include a sintered body of a conductive paste containing the above conductive material. In the seventh embodiment, the internal electrodes 107 and 109 are made of Ni.

(216) The internal electrodes 107 and the internal electrodes 109 are disposed in different positions (layers) in the first direction D101. The internal electrodes 107 and the internal electrodes 109 are alternately disposed in the element body 103 to oppose each other in the first direction D101 with an interval therebetween. Polarities of the internal electrodes 107 and the internal electrodes 109 are different from each other. In a case in which the lamination direction of the plurality of dielectric layers is the second direction D102, the internal electrodes 107 and the internal electrodes 109 are disposed in different positions (layers) in the second direction D102. The internal electrode 107 includes a pair of one ends exposed to a corresponding end surface 103e. The internal electrode 109 includes a pair of end exposed to a corresponding side surface 103c.

(217) The external electrodes 105 are disposed at both end portions of the element body 103 in the third direction D103. Each of the external electrodes 105 is disposed on a corresponding end surface 103e side of the element body 103. The external electrode 105 includes electrode portions 105a, 105b, 105c, and 105e. The electrode portion 105a is disposed on the principal surface 103a and on the ridge portion 103g. The electrode portion 105b is disposed on the ridge portion 103h. The electrode portion 105c is disposed on each ridge portion 103i. The electrode portion 105e is disposed on the corresponding end surface 103e. The external electrode 105 also includes electrode portions disposed on the ridge portions 103j.

(218) The external electrode 105 is formed on the four surfaces, that is, the principal surface 103a, the pair of side surfaces 103c, and the one end surface 103e, as well as on the ridge portions 103g, 103h, 103i, and 103j. The electrode portions 105a, 105b, 105c, and 105e adjacent each other are coupled and are electrically connected to each other. In the present embodiment, the external electrode 105 is not intentionally formed on the principal surface 103b.

(219) The electrode portion 105e disposed on the end surface 103e covers all the one ends of the internal electrodes 107 exposed at the end surface 103e. The internal electrodes 107 are directly connected to the electrode portions 105e. The internal electrode 107 is electrically connected to the pair of external electrodes 105.

(220) As illustrated in FIGS. 46, 47, and 48, the external electrode 105 includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The fourth electrode layer E4 is the outermost layer of the external electrode 105. Each of the electrode portions 105a, 105c, and 105e includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The electrode portion 105b includes the first electrode layer E1, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4.

(221) The first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 105a is disposed on the ridge portion 103g, and is not disposed on the principal surface 103a. The principal surface 103a is not covered with the first electrode layer E1, thereby being exposed from the first electrode layer E1. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 105a is disposed on the first electrode layer E1 and on the principal surface 103a. An entirety of the first electrode layer E1 is covered with the second electrode layer E2. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 105a is in contact with the principal surface 103a. The electrode portion 105a has a four-layer structure on the ridge portion 103g, and has three-layer structure on the principal surface 103a.

(222) The first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 105b is disposed on the ridge portion 103h, and is not disposed on the principal surface 103b. The principal surface 103b is not covered with the first electrode layer E1, thereby being exposed from the first electrode layer E1. The electrode portion 105b does not include the second electrode layer E2. The electrode portion 105b has a three-layer structure.

(223) The first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 105c is disposed on the ridge portion 103i, and is not disposed on the side surface 103c. The side surface 103c is not covered with the first electrode layer E1, thereby being exposed from the first electrode layer E1. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 105c is disposed on the first electrode layer E1 and on the side surface 103c. A part of the first electrode layer E1 is covered with the second electrode layer E2. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 105c is in contact with the side surface 103c.

(224) The electrode portion 105c includes a region 105c.sub.1 and a region 105c.sub.2. The region 105c.sub.2 is located closer to the principal surface 103a than the region 105c.sub.1. In the present embodiment, the electrode portion 105c includes only two regions 105c.sub.1 and 105c.sub.2. The region 105c.sub.1 includes the first electrode layer E1, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 105c.sub.1 does not include the second electrode layer E2. The region 105c.sub.1 has a three-layer structure. The region 105c.sub.2 includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 105c.sub.2 has s four-layer structure on the ridge portion 103i, and has a three-layer structure on the side surface 103c. The region 105c.sub.1 is the region where the first electrode layer E1 is exposed from the second electrode layer E2. The region 105c.sub.2 is the region where the first electrode layer E1 is covered with the second electrode layer E2.

(225) The first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 105e is disposed on the end surface 103e. The entire end surface 103e is covered with the first electrode layer E1. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 105e is disposed on the first electrode layer E1. A part of the first electrode layer E1 is covered with the second electrode layer E2.

(226) The electrode portion 105e includes a region 105e.sub.1 and a region 105e.sub.2. The region 105e.sub.2 is located closer to the principal surface 103a than the region 105e.sub.1. In the present embodiment, the electrode portion 105e includes only two regions 105e.sub.1 and 105e.sub.2. The region 105e.sub.1 includes the first electrode layer E1, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 105e.sub.1 does not include the second electrode layer E2. The region 105e.sub.1 has a three-layer structure. The region 105e.sub.2 includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 105e.sub.2 has a four-layer structure. The region 105e.sub.1 is the region where the first electrode layer E1 is exposed from the second electrode layer E2. The region 105e.sub.2 is the region where the first electrode layer E1 is covered with the second electrode layer E2.

(227) The external electrode 106 is disposed on a central portion of the element body 103 in the third direction D103. The external electrode 106 is located between the pair of external electrodes 105 in the third direction D103. The external electrode 106 includes an electrode portion 106a and a pair of electrode portions 106c. The electrode portion 106a is disposed on the principal surface 103a. Each of the electrode portions 106c is disposed on the side surface 103c and on the ridge portions 103j and 103k. The external electrode 106 is formed on the three surfaces, that is, the principal surface 103a and the pair of side surfaces 103c, as well as on the ridge portions 103j and 103k. The electrode portions 106a and 106c adjacent each other are coupled and are electrically connected to each other. In the present embodiment, the external electrode 106 is not intentionally formed on the principal surface 103b.

(228) The electrode portion 106a extends in the second direction D102 on the principal surface 103a. Each of the electrode portions 106c covers all the one ends exposed at the side surface 103c, of the internal electrodes 109. The internal electrodes 109 are directly connected to each electrode portion 106c. The internal electrodes 109 are electrically connected to the external electrode 106.

(229) As illustrated in FIGS. 46, 47, and 48, the external electrode 106 also includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The fourth electrode layer E4 is the outermost layer of the external electrode 106. The electrode portion 106a includes the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. Each of the electrode portions 106c includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4.

(230) The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 106a is disposed on the principal surface 103a. The electrode portion 106a does not include the first electrode layer E1. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 106a is in contact with the principal surface 103a. The electrode portion 106a has a three-layer structure.

(231) The first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 106c is disposed on the side surface 103c and on the ridge portions 103j and 103k. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 106c is disposed on the first electrode layer E1, on the side surface 103c, and on the ridge portion 103j. A part of the first electrode layer E1 is covered with the second electrode layer E2. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 106c is in contact with the side surface 103c and the ridge portion 103j.

(232) The electrode portion 106c includes a region 106c.sub.1 and a region 106c.sub.2. The region 106c.sub.2 is located closer to the principal surface 103a than the region 106c.sub.1. In the present embodiment, the electrode portion 106c includes only two regions 106c.sub.1 and 106c.sub.2. The region 106c.sub.1 includes the first electrode layer E1, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 106c.sub.1 does not include the second electrode layer E2. The region 106c.sub.1 has a three-layer structure. The region 106c.sub.2 includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 106c.sub.1 is the region where the first electrode layer E1 is exposed from the second electrode layer E2. The region 106c.sub.2 is the region where the first electrode layer E1 is covered with the second electrode layer E2.

(233) The region 106c.sub.2 includes a first portion 106c.sub.2-1 and a pair of second portions 106c.sub.2-2. In the first portion 106c.sub.2-1, the second electrode layer E2 is formed on the first electrode layer E1. In each of the second portions 106c.sub.2-2, the second electrode layer E2 is formed on the side surface 103c. The first portion 106c.sub.2-1 has a four-layer structure. Each of the second portions 106c.sub.2-2 includes the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. Each of the second portion 106c.sub.2-2 has a three-layer structure. The first portion 106c.sub.2-1 and the pair of second portions 106c.sub.2-2 are integrally formed. The first portion 106c.sub.2-1 is located between the pair of second portions 106c.sub.2-2 in the third direction D103. The second portions 106c.sub.2-2 are located at both sides of the first portion 106c.sub.2-1 when viewed from the second direction D102.

(234) The first electrode layer E1 is formed by sintering a conductive paste. The first electrode layer E1 is a layer that is formed by sintering a metal component (metal powder) contained in the conductive paste. In the present embodiment, the first electrode layer E1 is a sintered metal layer made of Cu. The first electrode layer E1 may be a sintered metal layer made of Ni. The first electrode layer E1 contains a base metal. The conductive paste contains, for example, powder made of Cu or Ni, a glass component, an organic binder, and an organic solvent.

(235) The second electrode layer E2 is formed by curing a conductive resin paste. The second electrode layer E2 is a conductive resin layer. The conductive resin paste contains, for example, a resin (e.g., a thermosetting resin), a conductive material (e.g., metal powder), and an organic solvent. As the metal powder, for example, Ag powder or Cu powder is used. As the thermosetting resin, for example, a phenolic resin, an acrylic resin, a silicone resin, an epoxy resin, or a polyimide resin is used.

(236) The third electrode layer E3 is formed by plating method. In the present embodiment, the third electrode layer E3 is a Ni plating layer formed by Ni plating. The third electrode layer E3 may be an Sn plating layer, a Cu plating layer, or an Au plating layer. The third electrode layer E3 contains Ni, Sn, Cu, or Au.

(237) The fourth electrode layer E4 is formed by plating method. In the present embodiment, the fourth electrode layer E4 is an Sn plating layer formed by Sn plating. The fourth electrode layer E4 may be a Cu plating layer or an Au plating layer. The fourth electrode layer E4 contains Sn, Cu, or Au.

(238) Next, a configuration of the external electrode 105 will be described.

(239) The first electrode layer E1 is formed to cover the end surface 103e and the ridge portions 103g, 103h, and 103i. The first electrode layer E1 is not intentionally formed on the pair of principal surfaces 103a and 103b and the pair of side surfaces 103c. The first electrode layer E1 may be unintentionally formed on the principal surfaces 103a and 103b and the side surface 103c due to a production error, for example.

(240) The second electrode layer E2 is formed on the first electrode layer E1, on the principal surface 103a, and on the pair of side surfaces 103c. The second electrode layer E2 is formed over the first electrode layer E1 and the element body 103. In the present embodiment, the second electrode layer E2 is formed to cover a partial region of the first electrode layer E1. The partial region of the first electrode layer E1 is a region, in the first electrode layer E1, corresponding to the electrode portion 105a, the region 105c.sub.2, and the region 105e.sub.2. The second electrode layer E2 is formed to cover the ridge portion 103j. The first electrode layer E1 serves as an underlying metal layer for forming the second electrode layer E2. The second electrode layer E2 is the conductive resin layer formed on the first electrode layer E1.

(241) The third electrode layer E3 is formed on the second electrode layer E2 and on the first electrode layer E1 (portion of the first electrode layer E1 exposed from the second electrode layer E2). The fourth electrode layer E4 is formed on the third electrode layer E3. The third electrode layer E3 and fourth electrode layer E4 constitute a plating layer formed on the second electrode layer E2. In the present embodiment, the plating layer formed on the second electrode layer E2 has a two-layer structure.

(242) The first electrode layer E1 included in each of the electrode portions 105a, 105b, 105c, and 105e is integrally formed. The second electrode layer E2 included in each of the electrode portions 105a, 105c, and 105e is integrally formed. The third electrode layer E3 included in each of the electrode portions 105a, 105b, 105c, and 105e is integrally formed. The fourth electrode layer E4 included in each of the electrode portions 105a, 105b, 105c, and 105e is also integrally formed.

(243) When viewed from the first direction D101, an entirety of the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 105a) is covered with the second electrode layer E2. When viewed from the first direction D101, the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 105a) is not exposed from the second electrode layer E2.

(244) When viewed in the second direction D102, an end region near the principal surface 103a of the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the region 105c.sub.2) is covered with the second electrode layer E2. When viewed from the second direction D102, an end edge of the second electrode layer E2 crosses an end edge of the first electrode layer E1. When viewed from the second direction D102, an end region near the principal surface 103b of the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the region 105c.sub.1) is exposed from the second electrode layer E2. The region 105c.sub.2 includes the second electrode layer E2 formed over the first electrode layer E1 and the side surface 103c.

(245) When viewed from the third direction D103, an end region near the principal surface 103a of the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the region 105e.sub.2) is covered with the second electrode layer E2. When viewed from the third direction D103, an end edge of the second electrode layer E2 is located on the first electrode layer E1. When viewed from the third direction D103, an end region near the principal surface 103b of the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the region 105e.sub.1) is exposed from the second electrode layer E2.

(246) As illustrated in FIG. 44, a width W1 of the region 105c.sub.2 in the third direction D103 continuously decreases with an increase in distance from the principal surface 103a (electrode portion 105a). A width of the region 105c.sub.2 in a first direction D101 continuously decreases with an increase in distance from the end surface 103e (electrode portion 5e). In the present embodiment, an end edge of the region 105c.sub.2 has an approximately arc shape when viewed from the second direction D102. The region 105c.sub.2 has an approximately fan shape when viewed from the second direction D102.

(247) Next, a configuration of the external electrode 106 will be described.

(248) The first electrode layer E1 is formed to cover the side surface 103c and the ridge portions 103j and 103k. The first electrode layer E1 is not intentionally formed on the pair of principal surfaces 103a and 103b. The first electrode layer E1 may be unintentionally formed on the principal surfaces 103a and 103b due to a production error, for example.

(249) The second electrode layer E2 is formed over the first electrode layer E1 and the element body 103. In the present embodiment, the second electrode layer E2 is formed to cover a partial region of the first electrode layer E1. The partial region of the first electrode layer E1 is a region corresponding to the region 106c.sub.2 in the first electrode layer E1. The second electrode layer E2 is also formed to cover a partial region of the principal surface 103a, a partial region of the side surface 103c, and a partial region of the ridge portion 103j.

(250) The third electrode layer E3 is formed on the second electrode layer E2 and on the first electrode layer E1 (portion of the first electrode layer E1 exposed from the second electrode layer E2) by plating method. The fourth electrode layer E4 is formed on the third electrode layer E3 by plating method.

(251) The second electrode layer E2 included in each of the electrode portions 106a and 106c is integrally formed. The third electrode layer E3 included in each of the electrode portions 106a and 106c is integrally formed. The fourth electrode layer E4 included in each of the electrode portions 106a and 106c is integrally formed.

(252) When viewed from the first direction D101, an entirety of the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 106c) is covered with the second electrode layer E2. When viewed from the first direction D101, the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 106c) is not exposed from the second electrode layer E2.

(253) When viewed in the second direction D102, an end region near the principal surface 103a of the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the region 106c.sub.2) is covered with the second electrode layer E2. When viewed from the second direction D102, an end edge of the second electrode layer E2 crosses an end edge of the first electrode layer E1. When viewed from the second direction D102, an end region near the principal surface 103b of the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the region 106c.sub.1) is exposed from the second electrode layer E2. The region 106c.sub.2 includes the second electrode layer E2 formed over the first electrode layer E1 and the side surface 103c.

(254) As illustrated in FIG. 44, a width W3 of the region 106c.sub.2 in the third direction D103 continuously decreases with an increase in distance from the principal surface 103a (electrode portion 106a). In the present embodiment, an end edge of the region 106c.sub.2 has an approximately arc shape when viewed from the second direction D102. The region 106c.sub.2 has an approximately semicircular shape when viewed from the second direction D102.

(255) As illustrated in FIG. 44, widths W5 of the regions 106c.sub.2-2 in the third direction D103 also continuously decrease with an increase in distance from the principal surface 103a (electrode portion 106a). An end edge of each region 106c.sub.2-2 is curved when viewed from the second direction D102. In the present embodiment, the end edge of each region 106c.sub.2-2 has an approximately arc shape when viewed from the second direction D102. Each region 106c.sub.2-2 has an approximately fan shape when viewed from the second direction D102. The width W5 of one region 106c.sub.2-2 and the width W5 of another region 106c.sub.2-2 may be equal to each other or different from each other.

(256) As described above, in the seventh embodiment, the region 106c.sub.2 located closer to the principal surface 103a than the region 106c.sub.1 includes the second electrode layer E2. The second electrode layer E2 included in the region 106c.sub.2 is formed over the first electrode layer E1 and the side surface 103c. Therefore, the second electrode layer E2 covers the end edge of the first electrode layer E1 included in the region 106c.sub.2. Stress tends not to concentrate on the end edge of the first electrode layer E1 included in the region 106c.sub.2, even in a case in which external force is applied onto the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C101 through a solder fillet. The end edge of the first electrode layer E1 tends not to serve as an origination of a crack. Consequently, in the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C101, occurrence of a crack in the element body 103 is reliably suppressed.

(257) In the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C101, the region 105c.sub.2 located closer to the principal surface 103a than the region 105c.sub.1 includes the second electrode layer E2. The second electrode layer E2 included in the region 105c.sub.2 is formed over the first electrode layer E1 and the side surface 103c. Therefore, the second electrode layer E2 covers the end edge of the first electrode layer E1 included in the region 105c.sub.2. Stress tends not to concentrate on the end edge of the first electrode layer E1 included in the region 105c.sub.2. The end edge of the first electrode layer E1 tends not to serve as an origination of a crack. Consequently, in the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C101, occurrence of a crack in the element body 103 is further reliably suppressed.

(258) In the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C101, the second electrode layers E2 cover the entire first electrode layers E1 (first electrode layers E1 included in the electrode portions 105a and 106a) when viewed from the first direction D101. Therefore, the stress tends not to concentrate on the end edges of the first electrode layers E1 included in the electrode portions 105a and 106a. Consequently, in the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C101, occurrence of a crack in the element body 103 is further reliably suppressed.

(259) In the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C101, the region 106c.sub.1 includes the first portion 106c.sub.2-1 and the second portions 106c.sub.2-2. The widths W5 of the regions 106c.sub.2-2 in a third direction D103 continuously decrease with the increase in distance from the principal surface 103a (electrode portion 106a).

(260) Internal stress is generated in the third electrode layer E3 and the fourth electrode layer E4 at a forming process of the respective electrode layers E3 and E4. In a case in which shapes of the third electrode layer E3 and the fourth electrode layer E4 in plan view have a corner, the internal stress tends to concentrate on the corner, and then the electrode layers E3 and E4 or the second electrode layer E2 located under the electrode layers E3 and E4 may peel off at the corner.

(261) Bonding strength between the second electrode layer E2 and the element body 103 (side surface 103c) is smaller than bonding strength between the second electrode layer E2 and the first electrode layer E1. Therefore, in the second portion 106c.sub.2-2 in which the second electrode layer E2 is formed on the side surface 103c, the second electrode layer E2 tends to peel off from the side surface 103c, as compared with in the first portion 106c.sub.2-1.

(262) In a case in which the width W5 of the second portion 106c.sub.2-2 continuously decreases with the increase in distance from the principal surface 103a, a shape of the second portion 106c.sub.2-2 in plan view has no corner. Therefore, a portion on which the internal stress concentrates tends not to be generated in the third electrode layer E3 and the fourth electrode layer E4. Consequently, occurrence of peel-off of the third electrode layer E3 and fourth electrode layer E4 and the second electrode layer E2 in the second portion 106c.sub.2-2 is suppressed.

(263) In the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C101, the width W1 of the region 105c.sub.2 continuously decreases with the increase in distance from the principal surface 103a. Therefore, a shape of the region 105c.sub.2 in plan view also has no corner. Consequently, occurrence of peel-off of the third electrode layer E3 and fourth electrode layer E4 and the second electrode layer E2 in the region 105c.sub.2 is suppressed.

(264) In the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C101, the end edge of the second portion 106c.sub.2-2 is curved when viewed from in the second direction D102. Also in this case, the shape of the second portion 106c.sub.2-2 in plan view has no corner. Therefore, a portion on which the internal stress concentrates tends not to be generated in the third electrode layer E3 and the fourth electrode layer E4 included in the second portion 106c.sub.2-2. Consequently, occurrence of peel-off of the third electrode layer E3 and fourth electrode layer E4 and the second electrode layer E2 in the second portion 106c.sub.2-2 is suppressed.

(265) In the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C101, the end edge of the region 106c.sub.2 has an approximately arc shape when viewed from in the second direction D102. Also in this case, the shape of the second portion 106c.sub.2-2 in plan view has no corner. Therefore, a portion on which the internal stress concentrates tends not to be generated in the third electrode layer E3 and the fourth electrode layer E4 included in the second portion 106c.sub.2-2. Consequently, occurrence of peel-off of the third electrode layer E3 and fourth electrode layer E4 and the second electrode layer E2 in the second portion 106c.sub.2-2 is suppressed.

(266) Next, a mounted structure of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C101 will be described with reference to FIGS. 49 and 50. FIGS. 49 and 50 are views illustrating a mounted structure of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the seventh embodiment.

(267) As illustrated in FIGS. 49 and 50, an electronic component device ECD2 includes the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C101 and an electronic device ED. The electronic device ED includes, for example, a circuit board or an electronic component.

(268) The multilayer feedthrough capacitor C101 is solder-mounted on the electronic device ED. The electronic device ED includes a principal surface EDa and a plurality of pad electrodes PE101, PE102, and PE103. Each of the pad electrodes PE101, PE102, and PE103 is disposed on the principal surface EDa. The plurality of pad electrodes PE101, PE102, and PE103 are separated from each other. The multilayer feedthrough capacitor C101 is disposed on the electronic device ED in such a manner that the principal surface 103a that is the mounting surface and the principal surface EDa oppose each other.

(269) In a case in which the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C101 is solder-mounted, molten solder wets to the external electrodes 105 and 106 (fourth electrode layers E4). Solder fillets SF are formed on the external electrodes 105 and 106 by solidification of the wet solder. The external electrodes 105 and 106 and the pad electrodes PE101, PE102, and PE103 that correspond to each other are coupled via the solder fillets SF.

(270) The solder fillets SF are formed on the regions 105e.sub.1 and 106c.sub.1 and regions 105e.sub.2 and 106c.sub.2 of the electrode portions 105e and 106c. In addition to the regions 105e.sub.2 and 106c.sub.2, the regions 105e.sub.1 and 106c.sub.1 that do not include the second electrode layer E2 are also coupled to the pad electrodes PE101, PE102, and PE103 via the solder fillets SF. Although illustration is omitted, the solder fillet SF is also formed on the region 105c.sub.1 and region 105c.sub.2 of the electrode portion 105c.

(271) In the electronic component device ECD2, occurrence of a crack in the element body 103 is reliably suppressed as described above.

(272) Next, a configuration of a multilayer feedthrough capacitor C102 according to a modification of the seventh embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 51 and 52. FIG. 51 is a plan view of a multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the present modification. FIG. 52 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the present modification.

(273) As with the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C101, the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C102 includes the element body 103, the pair of external electrodes 105, the plurality of internal electrodes 107 (not illustrated), and a plurality of internal electrodes 109 (not illustrated). The multilayer feedthrough capacitor C102 includes a pair of external electrodes 106. In the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C102, the number of the external electrodes 106 is different from that of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C101.

(274) As illustrated in FIG. 52, each of the external electrodes 106 includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The fourth electrode layer E4 is the outermost layer of the external electrode 106. The electrode portions 106a include the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. Each of the electrode portions 106c includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4.

(275) The electrode portions 106a included in one external electrode 106 and the electrode portions 106a included in another external electrode 106 is separated from each other in the second direction D102. Also in the present modification, the second electrode layers E2 cover an entirety of the first electrode layers E1 (first electrode layers E1 included in the electrode portion 106a) when viewed from the first direction D101. The first electrode layers E1 (first electrode layers E1 included in the electrode portion 106a) are not exposed from the second electrode layers E2 when viewed from the first direction D101.

Eighth Embodiment

(276) A configuration of a multilayer capacitor C103 according to an eighth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 53 to 56. FIGS. 53 and 54 are plan views of a multilayer capacitor according to the eighth embodiment. FIG. 55 is a side view of the multilayer capacitor according to the eighth embodiment. FIG. 56 is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of external electrodes. In the eighth embodiment, an electronic component is, for example, the multilayer capacitor C103.

(277) As illustrated in FIGS. 53 to 56, the multilayer capacitor C103 includes the element body 103, a plurality of external electrodes 116, and a plurality of internal electrodes (not illustrated). The plurality of external electrodes 116 is disposed on the outer surface of the element body 103. The plurality of external electrodes 5 is separated from each other. In the present embodiment, the multilayer capacitor C103 includes four external electrodes 116. The number of the external electrodes 116 is not limited to four.

(278) As with the external electrode 106, the external electrode 116 includes an electrode portion 116a and a pair of electrode portions 116c. The electrode portion 116a is disposed on the principal surface 103a. Each of the electrode portions 116c is disposed on the side surface 103c and on the ridge portions 103j and 103k. The external electrode 116 is formed on the two surfaces, that is, the principal surface 103a and the side surface 103c, as well as on the ridge portions 103j and 103k. The electrode portions 116a and 116c adjacent each other are coupled and are electrically connected to each other. In the present embodiment, the external electrode 116 is not intentionally formed on the principal surface 103b.

(279) The electrode portion 116c covers all one ends exposed at the side surface 103c of the respective internal electrodes. The electrode portion 116c is directly connected to the respective internal electrodes. The external electrode 116 is electrically connected to the respective internal electrodes.

(280) As illustrated in FIG. 56, the external electrode 116 also includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The fourth electrode layer E4 is the outermost layer of the external electrode 116.

(281) Next, a configuration of the external electrode 116 will be described.

(282) The first electrode layer E1 is formed to cover the side surface 103c and the ridge portions 103j and 103k. The first electrode layer E1 is not intentionally formed on the pair of principal surfaces 103a and 103b. The first electrode layer E1 may be unintentionally formed on the principal surfaces 103a and 103b due to a production error, for example.

(283) The second electrode layer E2 is formed over the first electrode layer E1 and the element body 103. In the present embodiment, the second electrode layer E2 is formed to cover a partial region of the first electrode layer E1. The partial region of the first electrode layer E1 is a region corresponding to a region 116c.sub.2 in the first electrode layer E1. The second electrode layer E2 is also formed to cover a partial region of the principal surface 103a, a partial region of the side surface 103c, and a partial region of the ridge portion 103j.

(284) The third electrode layer E3 is formed on the second electrode layer E2 and on the first electrode layer E1 (portion of the first electrode layer E1 exposed from the second electrode layer E2) by plating method. The fourth electrode layer E4 is formed on the third electrode layer E3 by plating method.

(285) The second electrode layer E2 included in each of the electrode portions 116a and 116c is integrally formed. The third electrode layer E3 included in each of the electrode portions 116a and 116c is integrally formed. The fourth electrode layer E4 included in each of the electrode portions 116a and 116c is integrally formed.

(286) When viewed from the first direction D101, an entirety of the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 116c) is covered with the second electrode layer E2. When viewed from the first direction D101, the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 116c) is not exposed from the second electrode layer E2.

(287) When viewed in the second direction D102, an end region near the principal surface 103a of the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the region 116c.sub.2) is covered with the second electrode layer E2. When viewed from the second direction D102, an end edge of the second electrode layer E2 crosses an end edge of the first electrode layer E1. When viewed from the second direction D102, an end region near the principal surface 103b of the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the region 116c.sub.1) is exposed from the second electrode layer E2. The region 116c.sub.2 includes the second electrode layer E2 formed over the first electrode layer E1 and the side surface 103c.

(288) The region 116c.sub.2 includes a first portion 116c.sub.2-1 and a pair of second portions 116c.sub.2-2. In the first portion 116c.sub.2-1, the second electrode layer E2 is formed on the first electrode layer E1. In the pair of the second portions 116c.sub.2-2, the second electrode layer E2 is formed on the side surface 103c. The first portion 116c.sub.2-1 has a four-layer structure. Each of the second portions 116c.sub.2-2 includes the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. Each of the second portion 116c.sub.2-2 has a three-layer structure. The first portion 116c.sub.2-1 and the pair of second portions 116c.sub.2-2 are integrally formed. The first portion 116c.sub.2-1 is located between the pair of second portions 116c.sub.2-2 in the third direction D103. The second portions 116c.sub.2-2 are located at both sides of the first portion 116c.sub.2-1 when viewed from the second direction D102.

(289) As illustrated in FIG. 55, a width W13 of the region 116c.sub.2 in the third direction D103 continuously decreases with an increase in distance from the principal surface 103a (electrode portion 116a). In the present embodiment, an end edge of the region 116c.sub.2 has an approximately arc shape when viewed from the second direction D102. The region 116c.sub.2 has an approximately semicircular shape when viewed from the second direction D102.

(290) As illustrated in FIG. 55, widths W15 of the regions 116c.sub.2-2 in the third direction D103 also continuously decrease with an increase in distance from the principal surface 103a (electrode portion 116a). An end edge of each region 116c.sub.2-2 is curved when viewed from the second direction D102. In the present embodiment, the end edge of each region 116c.sub.2-2 has an approximately arc shape when viewed from the second direction D102. Each region 116c.sub.2-2 has an approximately fan shape when viewed from the second direction D102. The width W15 of one region 116c.sub.2-2 and the width W15 of another region 116c.sub.2-2 may be equal to each other or different from each other.

(291) The multilayer capacitor C103 is also solder-mounted on the electronic device. In the multilayer capacitor C103, the principal surface 103a is arranged to constitute a mounting surface opposing the electronic device.

(292) As described above, in the eighth embodiment, the region 116c.sub.2 located closer to the principal surface 103a than the region 116c.sub.1 includes the second electrode layer E2. The second electrode layer E2 is formed over the first electrode layer E1 and the side surface 103c. Therefore, the second electrode layer E2 covers the end edge of the first electrode layer E1 included in the region 116c.sub.2. Stress tends not to concentrate on the end edge of the first electrode layer E1 included in the region 116c.sub.2, even in a case in which external force is applied onto the multilayer capacitor C103 through a solder fillet. The end edge of the first electrode layer E1 tends not to serve as an origination of a crack. Consequently, in the multilayer capacitor C103, occurrence of a crack in the element body 103 is reliably suppressed.

(293) In the multilayer capacitor C103, the second electrode layers E2 cover the entirety of the first electrode layers E1 (first electrode layers E1 included in the electrode portions 115a and 116a) when viewed from the first direction D101. Therefore, the stress tends not to concentrate on the end edges of the first electrode layers E1 included in the electrode portions 115a and 116a. Consequently, in the multilayer capacitor C103, occurrence of a crack in the element body 103 is further reliably suppressed.

(294) In the multilayer capacitor C103, the region 116c.sub.2 includes the first portion 116c.sub.2-1 and the second portion 116c.sub.2-2. The width W15 of the second portion 116c.sub.2-2 continuously decreases with the increase in distance from the principal surface 103a (electrode portion 116a). Therefore, a shape of the second portion 116c.sub.2-2 in plan view has no corner. A portion on which the internal stress concentrates tends not to be generated in the third electrode layer E3 and the fourth electrode layer E4. Consequently, occurrence of peel-off of the third electrode layer E3 and fourth electrode layer E4 and the second electrode layer E2 in the second portion 116c.sub.2-2 is suppressed.

(295) In the multilayer capacitor C103, the end edge of the second portion 116c.sub.2-2 is curved when viewed from in the second direction D102. Also in this case, the shape of the second portion 116c.sub.2-2 in plan view has no corner. Therefore, a portion on which the internal stress concentrates tends not to be generated in the third electrode layer E3 and the fourth electrode layer E4 included in the second portion 116c.sub.2-2. Consequently, occurrence of peel-off of the third electrode layer E3 and fourth electrode layer E4 and the second electrode layer E2 in the second portion 116c.sub.2-2 is suppressed.

(296) In the multilayer capacitor C103, the end edge of the region 116c.sub.2 has an approximately arc shape when viewed from in the second direction D102. Also in this case, the shape of the second portion 106c.sub.2-2 in plan view has no corner. Therefore, a portion on which the internal stress concentrates tends not to be generated in the third electrode layer E3 and the fourth electrode layer E4 included in the second portion 116c.sub.2-2. Consequently, occurrence of peel-off of the third electrode layer E3 and fourth electrode layer E4 and the second electrode layer E2 in the second portion 116c.sub.2-2 is suppressed.

(297) The electronic component device ECD2 may include the multilayer capacitor C103 in place of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C101. In this case, occurrence of a crack in the element body 103 is reliably suppressed.

Ninth Embodiment

(298) A configuration of a multilayer capacitor C201 according to a ninth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 57 to 64. FIG. 57 is a perspective view of the multilayer capacitor according to the ninth embodiment. FIG. 58 is a side view of the multilayer capacitor according to the ninth embodiment. FIGS. 59, 60, and 61 are views illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer capacitor according to the ninth embodiment. FIG. 62 is a plan view illustrating an element body, a first electrode layer, and a second electrode layer. FIG. 63 is a side view illustrating the element body, the first electrode layer, and the second electrode layer. FIG. 64 is an end view illustrating the element body, the first electrode layer, and the second electrode layer. In the ninth embodiment, an electronic component is, for example, the multilayer capacitor C201.

(299) As illustrated in FIG. 57, the multilayer capacitor C201 includes an element body 203 of a rectangular parallelepiped shape and a pair of external electrodes 205. The pair of external electrodes 205 is disposed on an outer surface of the element body 203. The pair of external electrodes 205 is separated from each other. The rectangular parallelepiped shape includes a rectangular parallelepiped shape in which corners and ridges are chamfered, and a rectangular parallelepiped shape in which the corners and ridges are rounded.

(300) The element body 203 includes a pair of principal surfaces 203a and 203b opposing each other, a pair of side surfaces 203c opposing each other, and a pair of end surfaces 203e opposing each other. The pair of principal surfaces 203a and 203b and the pair of side surfaces 203c have a rectangular shape. The direction in which the pair of principal surfaces 203a and 203b opposes each other is a first direction D201. The direction in which the pair of side surfaces 203c opposes each other is a second direction D202. The direction in which the pair of end surfaces 203e opposes each other is a third direction D203. The multilayer capacitor C201 is solder-mounted on an electronic device (e.g., a circuit board or an electronic component). In the multilayer capacitor C201, the principal surface 203a is arranged to constitute a mounting surface opposing the electronic device.

(301) The first direction D201 is a direction orthogonal to the respective principal surfaces 203a and 203b and is orthogonal to the second direction D202. The third direction D203 is a direction parallel to the respective principal surfaces 203a and 203b and the respective side surfaces 203c, and is orthogonal to the first direction D201 and the second direction D202. The second direction D202 is a direction orthogonal to the respective side surfaces 203c. The third direction D203 is a direction orthogonal to the respective end surfaces 203e. In the ninth embodiment, a length of the element body 203 in the third direction D203 is larger than a length of the element body 203 in the first direction D201, and larger than a length of the element body 203 in the second direction D202. The third direction D203 is a longitudinal direction of the element body 203.

(302) The pair of side surfaces 203c extends in the first direction D201 to couple the pair of principal surfaces 203a and 203b. The pair of side surfaces 203c also extends in the third direction D203. The pair of end surfaces 203e extends in the first direction D201 to couple the pair of principal surfaces 203a and 203b. The pair of end surfaces 203e also extends in the second direction D202.

(303) The element body 203 includes a pair of ridge portions 203g, a pair of ridge portions 203h, four ridge portions 203i, a pair of ridge portions 203j, and a pair of ridge portions 203k. The ridge portion 203g is located between the end surface 203e and the principal surface 203a. The ridge portion 203h is located between the end surface 203e and the principal surface 203b. The ridge portion 203i is located between the end surface 203e and the side surface 203c. The ridge portion 203j is located between the principal surface 203a and the side surface 203c. The ridge portion 203k is located between the principal surface 203b and the side surface 203c. In the present embodiment, each of the ridge portions 203g, 203h, 203i, 203j, and 203k is rounded to curve. The element body 203 is subject to what is called a round chamfering process.

(304) The end surface 203e and the principal surface 203a are indirectly adjacent to each other with the ridge portion 203g therebetween. The end surface 203e and the principal surface 203b are indirectly adjacent to each other with the ridge portion 203h therebetween. The end surface 203e and the side surface 203c are indirectly adjacent to each other with the ridge portion 203i therebetween. The principal surface 203a and the side surface 203c are indirectly adjacent to each other with the ridge portion 203j therebetween. The principal surface 203b and the side surface 203c are indirectly adjacent to each other with the ridge portion 203k therebetween.

(305) The element body 203 is configured by laminating a plurality of dielectric layers in the second direction D202. The element body 203 includes the plurality of laminated dielectric layers. In the element body 203, a lamination direction of the plurality of dielectric layers coincides with the second direction D202. Each dielectric layer includes, for example, a sintered body of a ceramic green sheet containing a dielectric material. As the dielectric material, for example, a dielectric ceramic of BaTiO.sub.3 base, Ba(Ti,Zr)O.sub.3 base, or (Ba,Ca)TiO.sub.3 base is used. In an actual element body 203, each of the dielectric layers is integrated to such an extent that a boundary between the dielectric layers cannot be visually recognized. In the element body 203, the lamination direction of the plurality of dielectric layers may coincide with the first direction D201.

(306) As illustrated in FIGS. 59, 60, and 61, the multilayer capacitor C201 includes a plurality of internal electrodes 207 and a plurality of internal electrodes 209. Each of the internal electrodes 207 and 209 is an internal conductor disposed in the element body 203. Each of the internal electrodes 207 and 209 is made of a conductive material that is usually used as an internal electrode of a multilayer electronic component. As the conductive material, a base metal (e.g., Ni or Cu) is used. Each of the internal electrodes 207 and 209 includes a sintered body of a conductive paste containing the above conductive material. In the ninth embodiment, each of the internal electrodes 207 and 209 is made of Ni.

(307) The internal electrodes 207 and the internal electrodes 209 are disposed in different positions (layers) in the second direction D202. The internal electrodes 207 and the internal electrodes 209 are alternately disposed in the element body 203 to oppose each other in the second direction D202 with an interval therebetween. Polarities of the internal electrodes 207 and the internal electrodes 209 are different from each other. In a case in which the lamination direction of the plurality of dielectric layers is the first direction D201, the internal electrodes 207 and the internal electrodes 209 are disposed in different positions (layers) in the first direction D201. Each of the internal electrodes 207 and 209 includes one end exposed to a corresponding side surface 203e.

(308) The plurality of internal electrodes 207 and the plurality of internal electrodes 209 are alternately disposed in the second direction D202. Each of the internal electrodes 207 and 209 is located in a plane approximately orthogonal to each of the principal surfaces 203a and 203b. The internal electrodes 207 and the internal electrodes 209 oppose each other in the second direction D202. The direction (second direction D202) in which the internal electrodes 207 and the internal electrodes 209 oppose each other is orthogonal to the direction (first direction D201) orthogonal to each of the principal surfaces 203a and 203b. As illustrated in FIG. 64, a distance Gc is larger than a distance Ga, and larger than a distance Gb. The distance Gc is the distance between the side surface 203c and the internal electrode 207 or 209 nearest to the side surface 203c in the second direction D202. The distance Ga is the distance between the principal surface 203a and the internal electrodes 207 and 209 in the first direction D201. The distance Gab is the distance between the principal surface 203b and the internal electrodes 207 and 209 in the first direction D201.

(309) As also illustrated in FIG. 58, the external electrodes 205 are disposed at both end portions of the element body 203 in the third direction D203. Each of the external electrodes 205 is disposed on a corresponding end surface 203e side of the element body 203. As illustrated in FIGS. 59, 60, and 61, the external electrode 205 includes a plurality of electrode portions 205a, 205b, 205c, and 205e. The electrode portion 205a is disposed on the principal surface 203a and on the ridge portion 203g. The electrode portion 205b is disposed on the ridge portion 203h. The electrode portion 205c is disposed on each ridge portion 203i. The electrode portion 205e is disposed on the corresponding end surface 203e. The external electrode 205 also includes electrode portions disposed on the ridge portions 203j. The electrode portion 205c is also disposed on the side surface 203c.

(310) The external electrode 205 is formed on the four surfaces, that is, the principal surface 203a, the end surface 203e, and the pair of side surfaces 203c, as well as on the ridge portions 203g, 203h, 203i, and 203j. The electrode portions 205a, 205b, 205c, and 205e adjacent each other are coupled and are electrically connected to each other. In the present embodiment, the external electrode 205 is not intentionally formed on the principal surface 203b. The electrode portion 205e disposed on the end surface 203e covers all one ends exposed at the end surface 203e of the corresponding internal electrodes 207 or 209. The electrode portion 205e is directly connected to the respective internal electrodes 207 and 209. The external electrode 205 is electrically connected to the respective internal electrodes 207 and 209.

(311) As illustrated in FIGS. 59, 60, and 61, the external electrode 205 includes a first electrode layer E1, a second electrode layer E2, a third electrode layer E3, and a fourth electrode layer E4. The fourth electrode layer E4 is the outermost layer of the external electrode 205. Each of the electrode portions 205a, 205c, and 205e includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The electrode portion 205b includes the first electrode layer E1, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4.

(312) The first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 205a is disposed on the ridge portion 203g, and is not disposed on the principal surface 203a. The first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 205a is in contact with the entire ridge portion 203g. The principal surface 203a is not covered with the first electrode layer E1, thereby being exposed from the first electrode layer E1. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 205a is disposed on the first electrode layer E1 and on the principal surface 203a. An entirety of the first electrode layer E1 is covered with the second electrode layer E2. In the electrode portion 205a, the second electrode layer E2 is in contact with a part of the principal surface 203a (partial region near the end surface 203e in the principal surface 203a) and an entirety of the first electrode layer E1. The electrode portion 205a has a four-layer structure on the ridge portion 203g, and has a three-layer structure on the principal surface 203a.

(313) The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 205a is formed to cover the entire ridge portion 203g and the part of the principal surface 203a (partial region near the end surface 203e in the principal surface 203a). The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 205a is formed to indirectly cover the entire ridge portion 203g with the first electrode layer E1 therebetween. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 205a is formed to directly cover the part of the principal surface 203a. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 205a is formed to directly cover an entire portion of the first electrode layer E1 formed on the ridge portion 203g.

(314) The first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 205b is disposed on the ridge portion 203h, and is not disposed on the principal surface 203b. The first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 205b is in contact with the entire ridge portion 203h. The principal surface 203b is not covered with the first electrode layer E1, thereby being exposed from the first electrode layer E1. The electrode portion 205b does not include the second electrode layer E2. The principal surface 203b is not covered with the second electrode layer E2, thereby being exposed from the second electrode layer E2. The second electrode layer E2 is not formed on the principal surface 203b. The electrode portion 5b has a three-layer structure.

(315) The first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 205c is disposed on the ridge portion 203i, and is not disposed on the side surface 203c. The first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 205c is in contact with the entire ridge portion 203i. The side surface 203c is not covered with the first electrode layer E1, thereby being exposed from the first electrode layer E1. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 205c is disposed on the first electrode layer E1 and on the side surface 203c. A part of the first electrode layer E1 is covered with the second electrode layer E2. In the electrode portion 205c, the second electrode layer E2 is in contact with a part of the side surface 203c and a part of the first electrode layer E1. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 205c includes a portion located on the side surface 203c.

(316) The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 205c is formed to cover a part of the ridge portion 203i (partial region near the principal surface 203a in the ridge portion 203i) and a part of the side surface 203c (corner region near the principal surface 203a and end surface 203e in the side surface 203c). The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 205c indirectly is formed to indirectly cover the part of the ridge portion 203i with the first electrode layer E1 therebetween. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 205c is formed to directly cover the part of the side surface 3c. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 205c is formed to directly cover the part of the first electrode layer E1 formed in the ridge portion 203i.

(317) The electrode portion 205c includes a region 205c.sub.1 and a region 205c.sub.2. The region 205c.sub.2 is located closer to the principal surface 203a than the region 205c.sub.1. In the present embodiment, the electrode portion 205c includes only two regions 205c.sub.1 and 205c.sub.2. The region 205c.sub.1 includes the first electrode layer E1, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 205c.sub.1 does not include the second electrode layer E2. The region 205c.sub.1 has a three-layer structure. The region 205c.sub.2 includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 205c.sub.2 has a four-layer structure on the ridge portion 203i, and has a three-layer structure on the side surface 203c. The region 205c.sub.1 is the region where the first electrode layer E1 is exposed from the second electrode layer E2. The region 205c.sub.2 is the region where the first electrode layer E1 is covered with the second electrode layer E2.

(318) The first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 205e is disposed on the end surface 203e. The entire end surface 203e is covered with the first electrode layer E1. The first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 205e is in contact with the entire end surface 203e. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 205e is disposed on the first electrode layer E1. A part of the first electrode layer E1 is covered with the second electrode layer E2. In the electrode portion 205e, the second electrode layer E2 is in contact with the part of the first electrode layer E1. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 205e is formed to cover a part of the end surface 203e (partial region near the principal surface 203a in the end surface 203e). The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 205e is formed to indirectly cover the part of the end surface 203e with the first electrode layer E1 therebetween. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 205e is formed to directly cover the part of the first electrode layer E1 formed on the end surface 203e. In the electrode portion 205e, the first electrode layer E1 is formed on the end surface 203e to be connected to the one ends of the respective internal electrodes 207 and 209.

(319) The electrode portion 205e includes a region 205e.sub.1 and a region 205e.sub.2. The region 205e.sub.2 is located closer to the principal surface 203a than the region 205e.sub.1. In the present embodiment, the electrode portion 205e includes only two regions 205e.sub.1 and 205e.sub.2. The region 205e.sub.1 includes the first electrode layer E1, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 205e.sub.1 does not include the second electrode layer E2. The region 205e.sub.1 has a three-layer structure. The region 205e.sub.2 includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 205e.sub.2 has a four-layer structure. The region 205e.sub.1 is the region where the first electrode layer E1 is exposed from the second electrode layer E2. The region 205e.sub.2 is the region where the first electrode layer E1 is covered with the second electrode layer E2.

(320) The first electrode layer E1 is formed by applying a conductive paste onto the surface of the element body 203 and sintering it. The first electrode layer E1 is formed to cover the end surface 203e and the ridge portions 203g, 203h, and 203i. The first electrode layer E1 is a sintered metal layer formed by sintering a metal component (metal powder) contained in the conductive paste. The first electrode layer E1 is the sintered metal layer formed on the element body 203. The first electrode layer E1 is not intentionally formed on the pair of principal surfaces 203a and 203b and the pair of side surfaces 203c. The first electrode layer E1 may be unintentionally formed on the principal surfaces 203a and 203b and the side surfaces 203c due to a production error, for example.

(321) In the present embodiment, the first electrode layer E1 is a sintered metal layer made of Cu. The first electrode layer E1 may be a sintered metal layer made of Ni. The first electrode layer E1 contains a base metal. The conductive paste contains, for example, powder made of Cu or Ni, a glass component, an organic binder, and an organic solvent.

(322) The second electrode layer E2 is formed by curing a conductive resin paste applied onto the first electrode layer E1, the principal surface 203a, and the pair of side surfaces 203c. The second electrode layer E2 is formed on the first electrode layer E1 and the element body 203. In the present embodiment, the second electrode layer E2 is formed to cover a partial region of the first electrode layer E1. The partial region of the first electrode layer E1 is a region, in the first electrode layer E1, corresponding to the electrode portion 205a, the region 205c.sub.2, and the region 205e.sub.2. The second electrode layer E2 is formed to directly cover a part of the ridge portion 203j (partial region near the end surface 203e in the ridge portion 203j). The second electrode layer E2 is in contact with the part of the ridge portion 203j. The first electrode layer E1 serves as an underlying metal layer for forming the second electrode layer E2. The second electrode layer E2 is a conductive resin layer formed on the first electrode layer E1.

(323) The conductive resin paste contains, for example, a resin (e.g., a thermosetting resin), a conductive material (e.g., metal powder), and an organic solvent. As the metal powder, for example, Ag powder or Cu powder is used. As the thermosetting resin, for example, a phenolic resin, an acrylic resin, a silicone resin, an epoxy resin, or a polyimide resin is used.

(324) The third electrode layer E3 is formed on the second electrode layer E2 and on the first electrode layer E1 (portion of the first electrode layer E1 exposed from the second electrode layer E2) by plating method. In the present embodiment, the third electrode layer E3 is a Ni plating layer formed on the first electrode layer E1 and on the second electrode layer E2 by Ni plating. The third electrode layer E3 may be an Sn plating layer, a Cu plating layer, or an Au plating layer. The third electrode layer E3 contains Ni, Sn, Cu, or Au.

(325) The fourth electrode layer E4 is formed on the third electrode layer E3 by plating method. In the present embodiment, the fourth electrode layer E4 is an Sn plating layer formed on the third electrode layer E3 by Sn plating. The fourth electrode layer E4 may be a Cu plating layer or an Au plating layer. The fourth electrode layer E4 contains Sn, Cu, or Au. The third electrode layer E3 and fourth electrode layer E4 constitute a plating layer formed on the second electrode layer E2. In the present embodiment, the plating layer formed on the second electrode layer E2 has a two-layer structure.

(326) The first electrode layer E1 included in each of the electrode portions 205a, 205b, 205c, and 205e is integrally formed. The second electrode layer E2 included in each of the electrode portions 205a, 205c, and 205e is integrally formed. The third electrode layer E3 included in each of the electrode portions 205a, 205b, 205c, and 205e is integrally formed. The fourth electrode layer E4 included in each of the electrode portions 205a, 205b, 205c, and 205e is integrally formed.

(327) The first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 205e) is formed on the end surface 3e to be connected to the respective internal electrodes 207 and 209. The first electrode layer E1 is formed to cover the entire end surface 203e, the entire ridge portion 203g, the entire ridge portion 203h, and the entire ridge portion 203i. The second electrode layer E2 (second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portions 205a, 205c, and 205e) is formed to continuously cover a part of the principal surface 203a, a part of the end surface 203e, and a part of each of the pair of side surfaces 203c. The second electrode layer E2 (second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portions 205a, 205c, and 205e) is formed to cover the entire ridge portion 203g, a part of the ridge portion 203i, and a part of the ridge portion 203j. The second electrode layer E2 includes portions each corresponding to the part of the principal surface 203a, the part of the end surface 203e, the part of each of the pair of side surfaces 203c, the entire ridge portion 203g, the part of the ridge portion 203i, and the part of the ridge portion 203j. The first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 205e) is directly connected to the respective internal electrodes 207 and 209.

(328) The first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portions 205a, 205b, 205c, and 205e) includes a region covered with the second electrode layer E2 (second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portions 205a, 205c, and 205e), and a region not covered with the second electrode layer E2 (second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portions 205a, 205c, and 205e). The third electrode layer E3 and the fourth electrode layer E4 are formed to cover the region of the first electrode layer E1 not covered with the second electrode layer E2 and the second electrode layer E2.

(329) As illustrated in FIG. 62, when viewed from the first direction D201, an entirety of the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 205a) is covered with the second electrode layer E2. When viewed from the first direction D201, the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 205a) is not exposed from the second electrode layer E2.

(330) As illustrated in FIG. 63, when viewed in the second direction D202, an end region near the principal surface 203a of the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the region 205c.sub.2) is covered with the second electrode layer E2. When viewed from the second direction D202, an end edge E2e of the second electrode layer E2 crosses an end edge E1e of the first electrode layer E1. When viewed from the second direction D202, an end region near the principal surface 203b of the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the region 205c.sub.1) is exposed from the second electrode layer E2. When viewed from the second direction D202, an area of a region located on the side surface 203c and ridge portion 203i in the second electrode layer E2 is larger than an area of a region located on the ridge portion 203i in the first electrode layer E1. A region located on the side surface 203c in the second electrode layer E2 opposes the internal electrode 207 or 209 different in polarity from the second electrode layer E2, in the second direction D202.

(331) As illustrated in FIG. 64, when viewed from the third direction D203, an end region near the principal surface 203a of the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the region 205e.sub.2) is covered with the second electrode layer E2. When viewed from the third direction D203, an end edge E2e of the second electrode layer E2 is located on the first electrode layer E1. When viewed from the third direction D203, the end region near the principal surface 203b of the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the region 205e.sub.1) is exposed from the second electrode layer E2. When viewed from the second direction D203, an area of a region located on the end surface 203e and ridge portion 203g in the second electrode layer E2 is smaller than an area of a region located on the end surface 203e and ridge portion 203g in the first electrode layer E1. When viewed from the second direction D203, a height H2 of the second electrode layer E2 is not more than half of a height H1 of the element body 203.

(332) As illustrated in FIG. 64, one end of each internal electrode 207 includes a region 207a overlapping with the second electrode layer E2 and a region 207b not overlapping with the second electrode layer E2, when viewed from the third direction D203. One end of each internal electrode 209 includes a region 209a overlapping the second electrode layer E2 and a region 209b not overlapping the second electrode layer E2, when viewed from the third direction D203. The regions 207a and 209a are located closer to the principal surface 203a in the first direction D201 than the regions 207b and 209b. The first electrode layer E1 included in the region 205e.sub.2 is connected to the corresponding regions 207a and 209a. The first electrode layer E1 included in the region 205e.sub.1 is connected to the corresponding regions 207b and 209b. When viewed from the third direction D203, the end edge E2e of the second electrode layer E2 crosses the one end of each internal electrode 207 and 209. Lengths L.sub.ia of the regions 207a and 209a in the first direction D201 are smaller than lengths L.sub.ib of the regions 207b and 209b in the first direction D201. In the present embodiment, the first electrode layer E1 is directly connected to the one ends of all the corresponding internal electrodes 207 and 209.

(333) In the present embodiment, the second electrode layer E2 is formed to continuously cover only the part of the principal surface 203a, only the part of the end surface 203e, and only the part of each of the pair of side surfaces 203c. The second electrode layer E2 is formed to cover the entire ridge portion 203g, only the part of the ridge portion 203i, and only the part of the ridge portion 203j. The part of a portion, of the first electrode layer E1, covering the ridge portion 203i is exposed from the second electrode layer E2. For example, the first electrode layer E1 included in the region 205c.sub.1 is exposed from the second electrode layer E2. The first electrode layer E1 is formed on the end surface 203e to be connected to the corresponding regions 207a and 209a. In present embodiment, the first electrode layer E1 is also formed on the end surface 203e to be connected to the corresponding regions 207b and 209b. In present embodiment, the first electrode layer E1 is directly connected to the one ends of all the corresponding internal electrodes 207 and 209.

(334) As illustrated in FIG. 58, a width of the region 205c.sub.2 in the third direction D203 decreases with an increase in distance from the principal surface 203a (electrode portion 205a). A width of the region 205c.sub.2 in the first direction D201 decreases with an increase in distance from the end surface 203e (electrode portion 205e). In the present embodiment, an end edge of the region 205c.sub.2 has an approximately arc shape when viewed from the second direction D202. The region 205c.sub.2 has an approximately fan shape when viewed from the second direction D202. In the present embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 63, the width of the second electrode layer E2 viewed from the second direction D202 decreases with an increase in distance from the principal surface 203a. When viewed from the second direction D202, a length of the second electrode layer E2 in the first direction D201 decreases with an increase in distance from the principal surface 203e in the third direction D203. When viewed from the second direction D202, a length, of the portion located on the side surface 203c of the second electrode layer E2, in the first direction D201 decreases with an increase in distance from the end portion of the element body 203, in the third direction D203. As illustrated in FIG. 63, the end edge E2e of the second electrode layer E2 has an approximately arc shape.

(335) In a case in which the multilayer capacitor C201 is solder-mounted on an electronic device, external force applied onto the multilayer capacitor C201 from the electronic device may act as stress on the element body 203 from a solder fillet formed at the solder-mounting, through the external electrode 205. In this case, a crack may occur in the element body 203. The External force tends to act on a region defined by a part of the principal surface 203a, a part of the end surface 203e, and a part of each of the pair of side surfaces 203c, in the element body 203. In the multilayer capacitor C201, the second electrode layer E2 (second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portions 205a, 203c, and 205e) is formed to continuously cover only the part of the principal surface 203a, only the part of the end surface 203e, and only the part of each of the pair of side surfaces 203c. Therefore, the external force applied onto the multilayer capacitor C201 from the electronic device tends not to act on the element body 203. Consequently, in the multilayer capacitor C201, occurrence of a crack in the element body 203 is suppressed.

(336) A region between the element body 203 and the second electrode layer E2 may act as a path through which moisture infiltrates. In a case in which moisture infiltrates from the region between the element body 203 and the second electrode layer E2, durability of the multilayer capacitor C201 decreases. The multilayer capacitor C201 includes few paths through which moisture infiltrates, as compared with a multilayer capacitor in which the second electrode layer E2r is formed to continuously cover the entire end surface 203e, a part of each of the pair of principal surface 203a and 203b, and a part of each of the pair of side surfaces 203c. Therefore, in the multilayer capacitor C201, moisture resistance reliability is improved.

(337) The multilayer capacitor C201 includes the plurality of internal electrodes 207 and 209 exposed to the respective end surfaces 203. The external electrodes 205 include the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 205e) formed on the end surface 203e to be connected to the respective internal electrodes 207 and 209. In this case, the external electrodes 205 (first electrode layer E1) and the internal electrodes 207 and 209 that correspond to each other are favorably in contact with each other. Therefore, the external electrodes 205 and the internal electrodes 207 and 209 that correspond to each other are reliably electrically connected to each other.

(338) In the multilayer capacitor C201, the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 205e) includes the region covered with the second electrode layer E2 (second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 205e) and the region not covered with the second electrode layer E2 (second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 205e). Electric resistance of the second electrode layer E2 is larger than electric resistance of the first electrode layer E1. The region, in the first electrode layer E1, not covered with the second electrode layer E2 is electrically connected to the electronic device without passing through the second electrode layer E2. Therefore, in the multilayer capacitor C201, an increase in ESR is suppressed, even in a case in which the external electrode 205 includes the second electrode layer E2.

(339) In the multilayer capacitor C201, the first electrode layer E1 is also formed on the ridge portion 203i and the ridge portion 203g. Bonding strength between the second electrode layer E2 and the element body 203 is smaller than bonding strength between the second electrode layer E2 and the first electrode layer E1. In multilayer capacitor C201, the first electrode layer E1 is formed on the ridge portion 203i and the ridge portion 203g. Therefore, even in a case in which the second electrode layer E2 peels off from the element body 203, the peel-off of the second electrode layer E2 tends not to develop to a position corresponding to the end surface 203e beyond a position corresponding to the ridge portion 203i and ridge portion 203g.

(340) In the multilayer capacitor C201, the second electrode layer E2 (second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portions 205a and 205c) is formed to cover a part of the portion of the first electrode layer E1 formed on the ridge portion 203i (first electrode layer E1 included in the region 205c.sub.2) and an entirety of the portion of the first electrode layer E1 formed on the ridge portion 203g. In this configuration, the peel-off of the second electrode layer E2 further tends not to develop to the position corresponding to the end surface 203e.

(341) The Stress acting on the element body due to the external force applied onto the multilayer capacitor C201 from the electronic device tends to concentrate on the end edge of the first electrode layer E1. A crack may occur in the element body 203 with the end edge of the first electrode layer E1 serving as an origination. In the multilayer capacitor C201, the second electrode layer E2 is formed to cover the part of the portion of the first electrode layer E1 formed on the ridge portion 203i (first electrode layer E1 included in the region 205c.sub.2) and the entirety of the portion of the first electrode layer E1 formed on the ridge portion 203g. Therefore, the stress tends not to concentrate on the end edge of the first electrode layer E1. Consequently, in the multilayer capacitor C201, the occurrence of the crack in the element body 203 is reliably suppressed.

(342) In the multilayer capacitor C201, when viewed from the third direction D202, the area of the region located on the side surface 203c and ridge portion 203i in the second electrode layer E2 is larger than the area of the region located on the ridge portion 203i in the first electrode layer E1. When viewed from the third direction D203, the area of the region located on the end surface 203e and ridge portion 203g in the second electrode layer E2 is smaller than the area of the region located on the end surface 203e and ridge portion 203g in the first electrode layer E1. In this case, the increase in ESR is further suppressed.

(343) In the multilayer capacitor C201, the part of the portion of the first electrode layer E1 formed on the ridge portion 203i is exposed from the second electrode layer E2. For example, the first electrode layer E1 included in the region 205.sub.c1 is exposed from the second electrode layer E2. In the present embodiment, the area of the region located on the side surface 203c and ridge portion 203i in the second electrode layer E2 is larger than an area of the part of the portion of the first electrode layer E1 formed on the ridge portion 203i. In this case, the increase in ESR is further suppressed.

(344) In the multilayer capacitor C201, the area of the region located on the end surface 203e and ridge portion 203g in the second electrode layer E2 is smaller than an area of the region exposed from the second electrode layer E2 in the region located on the end surface 203e and ridge portion 203g in the first electrode layer E1. In this case, the increase in ESR is further suppressed.

(345) In the multilayer capacitor C201, the external electrode 205 includes the third electrode layer E3 and fourth electrode layer E4. The third electrode layer E3 and fourth electrode layer E4 are formed to cover the second electrode layer E2 and on the region of the first electrode layer E1 exposed from the second electrode layer E2. The external electrode 205 includes the third electrode layer E3 and fourth electrode layer E4, and thus the multilayer capacitor C201 can be solder-mounting on the electronic device. The region of the first electrode layer E1 exposed from the second electrode layer E2 is electrically connected to the electronic device via the third electrode layer E3 and fourth electrode layer E4. Therefore, in the multilayer capacitor C201, the increase in ESR is further suppressed.

(346) In the multilayer capacitor C201, when viewed from the third direction D203, the height H2 of the second electrode layer E2 is a half of the height H1 of the element body 203, or less. The multilayer capacitor C201 includes few paths through which moisture infiltrates, as compared with a configuration in which the height H2 of the second electrode layer E2 is higher than a half of the height H1 of the element body 203 when viewed from the third direction D203. Therefore, in the multilayer capacitor C201, the moisture resistance reliability is further improved. In the multilayer capacitor C201, the increase in ESR is suppressed, as compared with in the configuration in which the height H2 of the second electrode layer E2 is higher than a half of the height H1 of the element body 203 when viewed from the third direction D203.

(347) In the multilayer capacitor C201, the principal surface 203b of the element body 203 is exposed from the second electrode layer E2. In the multilayer capacitor C201, the increase in ESR is suppressed.

(348) In the multilayer capacitor C201, the second electrode layer E2 is in contact with a part of the ridge portion 203j. Therefore, a crack tends not to occur in the part of the ridge portion 203j. The second electrode layer E2 reliably covers the first electrode layer E1, and thus the second electrode layer E2 relieves stress acting on the first electrode layer E1.

(349) In the present embodiment, the multilayer capacitor C201 also has the following operations and effects.

(350) In the multilayer capacitor C201, when viewed from the first direction D201, the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 205a) is entirely covered with the second electrode layer E2. Therefore, the stress tends not to concentrate on the end edge of the first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 205a. When viewed from the second direction D202, the end region near the principal surface 203a of the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the region 205c.sub.2) is covered with the second electrode layer E2. Therefore, the stress tends not to concentrate on the end edge of the first electrode layer E1 included in the region 205c.sub.2. Consequently, in the multilayer capacitor C201, occurrence of a crack in the element body 203 is suppressed.

(351) In the multilayer capacitor C201, when viewed from the second direction D202, the end edge E2e of the second electrode layer E2 crosses the end edge E1e of the first electrode layer E1. The entirety of the first electrode layer E1 is not covered with the second electrode layer E2. The first electrode layer E1 includes the region exposed from the second electrode layer E2. Therefore, in the multilayer capacitor C201, an increase in an amount of conductive resin paste used for forming the second electrode layer E2 is suppressed.

(352) The electric resistance of the second electrode layer E2 is larger than the electric resistance of the first electrode layer E1. In the region 205e.sub.1 included in the electrode portion 205e, the first electrode layer E1 is exposed from the second electrode layer E2. The region 205e.sub.1 does not include the second electrode layer E2. At the region 205e.sub.1, the first electrode layer E1 is electrically connected to the electronic device without passing through the second electrode layer E2. Therefore, in the multilayer capacitor C201, an increase in ESR is suppressed.

(353) The region 205c.sub.2 included in the electrode portion 205c includes the second electrode layer E2. Therefore, even in a case in which the external electrode 205 includes the electrode portion 205c, the stress tends not to concentrate on the end edge of the external electrode 205. The end edge of the external electrode 205 tends not to serve as an origination of a crack. Consequently, in the multilayer capacitor C201, the occurrence of the crack in the element body 203 is reliably suppressed.

(354) The region 205e.sub.2 included in the electrode portion 205e includes the second electrode layer E2. Therefore, even in a case in which the external electrode 205 includes the electrode portion 205e, the stress tends not to concentrate on the end edge of the external electrode 205. Consequently, in the multilayer capacitor C201, the occurrence of the crack in the element body 203 is reliably suppressed.

(355) In the multilayer capacitor C201, the width of the region 205c.sub.2 in the third direction D203 decreases with the increase in distance from the principal surface 203a. The width of the second electrode layer E2 viewed from the second direction D202 decreases with the increase in distance from the principal surface 203a. Therefore, the occurrence of the crack in the element body 203 is suppressed, and the increase in the amount of conductive resin paste used for forming the second electrode layer E2 is further suppressed.

(356) In the present embodiment, the multilayer capacitor C201 also has the following operations and effects.

(357) In a case in which the multilayer capacitor C201 is solder-mounted on the electronic device, the external force also tends to act on the element body 203 through the region near the principal surface 203a in the end surface 203e. In the multilayer capacitor C201, the second electrode layer E2 (second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 205e) is formed to cover the portion near the principal surface 203a in the end surface 203e. Therefore, the external force applied onto the multilayer capacitor C201 from the electronic device tends not to act on the element body 203. Consequently, the occurrence of the crack in the element body 203 is suppressed.

(358) In the multilayer capacitor C201, the second electrode layer E2 (second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 205e) is formed to cover the portion near the principal surface 203a in the end surface 203e. Therefore, the end surface 203e includes the region not covered with the second electrode layer E2, when viewed from the third direction D203. The multilayer capacitor C201 includes few paths through which moisture infiltrates, as compared with a multilayer capacitor in which the second electrode layer E2r is formed to cover the entire end surface 203e. Consequently, in the multilayer capacitor C201, the moisture resistance is improved.

(359) In the multilayer capacitor C201, the principal surface 203a is arranged to constitute the mounting surface, and the plurality of internal electrodes 207 and 209. Therefore, in the multilayer capacitor C201, a current path formed for each of the internal electrodes 207 and 209 is short, and ESL is low.

(360) In the multilayer capacitor C201, when viewed from the third direction D203, the one end of each of the internal electrodes 207 and 209 includes the regions 207a and 209a and the regions 207b and 209b. Also in this case, there are few paths through which moisture infiltrates. Therefore, in the multilayer capacitor C201, the moisture resistance reliability is improved.

(361) In the multilayer capacitor C201, each length L.sub.ia of the regions 207a and 209a in the first direction D201 is smaller than each length L.sub.ib of the regions 207b and 209b in the first direction D201. In this case, there are fewer paths through which moisture infiltrates. Therefore, in the multilayer capacitor C201, the moisture resistance reliability is further improved.

(362) In the multilayer capacitor C201, the external electrodes 205 include the first electrode layer E1 formed on the end surface 203e to be connected to the respective internal electrodes 207 and 209. In this case, the external electrodes 205 (first electrode layer E1) and the internal electrodes 207 and 209 that correspond to each other are favorably in contact with each other. Therefore, the external electrodes 205 and the internal electrodes 207 and 209 that correspond to each other are reliably electrically connected to each other. The electric resistance of the second electrode layer E2 is larger than the electric resistance of the first electrode layer E1. In a case in which the external electrodes 205 include the first electrode layer E1 connected to the respective internal electrodes 207 and 209, the first electrode layer E1 is electrically connected to the electronic device without passing through the second electrode layer E2. Therefore, in the multilayer capacitor C201, even in a case in which the external electrode 205 includes the second electrode layer E2, the increase in ESR is suppressed.

(363) In the multilayer capacitor C201, the regions 207b of all the internal electrodes 207 and the regions 209b of all the internal electrodes 209 is connected with the respective first electrode layer E1. Therefore, in the multilayer capacitor C201, the increase in ESR is further suppressed.

(364) In the multilayer capacitor C201, the external electrode 205 includes the third electrode layer E3 and fourth electrode layer E4. The third electrode layer E3 and fourth electrode layer E4 are formed to cover the second electrode layer E2 and the first electrode layer E1 (region of the first electrode layer E1 exposed from the second electrode layer E2). The external electrode 205 includes the third electrode layer E3 and fourth electrode layer E4. Therefore, the multilayer capacitor C201 can be solder-mounting on the electronic device. The first electrode layer E1 is electrically connected to the electronic device via the third electrode layer E3 and fourth electrode layer E4. Therefore, in the multilayer capacitor C201, the increase in ESR is further suppressed.

(365) In the multilayer capacitor C201, when viewed from the second direction D203, the end edge E2e of the second electrode layer E2 crosses the one end of each of the internal electrodes 207 and 209. Also in this case, there are few paths through which moisture infiltrates. Therefore, in the multilayer capacitor C201, the moisture resistance reliability is reliably improved.

(366) In the multilayer capacitor C201, the second electrode layer E2 is formed to cover the portion near the end surface 203e in the principal surface 203a. The external force applied onto the multilayer capacitor C201 from the electronic device also tends to act on the element body 203 through the region near the end surface 203e in the principal surface 203a. Therefore, in the multilayer capacitor C201, the occurrence of the crack in the element body 203 is reliably suppressed.

(367) In the multilayer capacitor C201, the second electrode layer E2 is formed to cover the portion near the end surface 203e in the side surface 203c. The external force applied onto the multilayer capacitor C201 from the electronic device also tends to act on the element body 203 through the region near the end surface 203e in the side surface 203c. Therefore, in the multilayer capacitor C201, the occurrence of the crack in the element body 203 is reliably suppressed.

(368) In the multilayer capacitor C201, the second electrode layer E2 located on the side surface 203c opposes the internal electrode 207 or 209 having a polarity different from that of the second electrode layer E2, in the second direction D202. Therefore, capacitance component is formed between the second electrode layer E2 located on the side surface 203c and the internal electrode 207 or 209 opposing the second electrode layer E2. Consequently, in multilayer capacitor C201, electrostatic capacitance increases.

(369) In the multilayer capacitor C201, the second electrode layer E2 is not formed on the principal surface 203b. In a case in which the multilayer capacitor C201 is mounted on an electronic device in such a manner that the principal surface 203a is arranged to constitute the mounting surface, the principal surface 203b needs to be picked up by a suction nozzle of a mounter. In the multilayer capacitor C201, a shape of the external electrode 205 on the principal surface 203a is different from a shape of the external electrode 205 on the principal surface 203b. Therefore, the principal surface 203a and the principal surface 203b are easily distinguished from each other. Consequently, the multilayer capacitor C201 is reliably mounted on the electronic device.

(370) In the multilayer capacitor C201, the distance Gc is larger than the distances Ga and Gb. Therefore, in the multilayer capacitor C201, even in a case in which a crack occurs from the side surface 203c of the element body 203, the crack tends not to reach to the internal electrodes 207 and 209.

(371) Next, a mounted structure of the multilayer capacitor C201 will be described with reference to FIG. 65. FIG. 65 is a view illustrating a mounted structure of the multilayer capacitor according to the ninth embodiment.

(372) As illustrated in FIG. 65, an electronic component device ECD3 includes the multilayer capacitor C201 and an electronic device ED. The electronic device ED includes, for example, a circuit board or an electronic component. The multilayer capacitor C201 is solder-mounted on the electronic device ED. The electronic device ED includes a principal surface EDa and tow pad electrodes PE1 and PE2. Each of the pad electrodes PE1 and PE2 is disposed on the principal surface EDa. The two pad electrodes PE1 and PE2 are separated from each other. The multilayer capacitor C201 is disposed on the electronic device ED in such a manner that the principal surface 203a that is the mounting surface and the principal surface EDa oppose each other.

(373) In a case in which the multilayer capacitor C201 is solder-mounted, molten solder wets to the external electrodes 205 (fourth electrode layers E4). Solder fillets SF are formed on the external electrodes 205 by solidification of the wet solder. The external electrodes 205 and the pad electrodes PE101, PE102, and PE103 that correspond to each other are coupled via the solder fillets SF.

(374) The solder fillet SF is formed on the region 205e.sub.1 and region 205e, of the electrode portion 205e. In addition to the region 205e.sub.2, the region 205e.sub.1 that does not include the second electrode layer E2 is also coupled to the corresponding pad electrode PE1 or PE2 via the solder fillet SF. When viewed from the third direction D203, the solder fillet SF overlaps with the region 205e.sub.1 included in the electrode portion 205e (first electrode layer E1 included in the region 205e.sub.1). Although illustration is omitted, the solder fillet SF is also formed on the region 205c.sub.1 and region 205c.sub.2 of the electrode portion 205c. A height of the solder fillet SF in the first direction D201 is larger than a height of the second electrode layer E2. The solder fillet SF extends closer to the principal surface 203b beyond the end edge E2e of the second electrode layer E2 in the first direction D201.

(375) In the electronic component device ECD3, occurrence of a crack in the element body 103 is suppressed and moisture resistance reliability is improved as described above. In the electronic component device ECD3, when viewed from the third direction D203, the solder fillet SF overlaps with the region 205e.sub.1 included in the electrode portion 205e, and thus an increase in ESR is suppressed, even in a case in which the external electrode 205 includes the second electrode layer E2. In the electronic component device ECD3, ESL is low as described above.

(376) Next, configurations of multilayer capacitors C202 according to modifications of the ninth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 66 to 68. FIGS. 66 to 68 are side views of multilayer capacitors according to the present modifications.

(377) As with the multilayer capacitor C201, the multilayer capacitor C202 includes the element body 3, the pair of external electrodes 5, the plurality of internal electrodes 7 (not illustrated), and the plurality of internal electrodes 9 (not illustrated). In the multilayer capacitor C202, a shape of the region 205c.sub.2 (second electrode layer E2 included in the region 205c.sub.2) is different from that of the multilayer capacitor C201.

(378) As is the case in the multilayer capacitor C201, in the multilayer capacitors C202 illustrated in FIGS. 66 and 67, the width of the region 205c, in the third direction D203 decreases with the increase in distance from the electrode portion 205a. The width of the second electrode layer E2 viewed from the second direction D202 decreases with the increase in distance from the electrode portion 205a. When viewed from the second direction D202, the length of the second electrode layer E2 in the first direction D201 decreases with the increase in distance from the principal surface 203e in the third direction D203. When viewed from the second direction D202, the length, of the portion located on the side surface 203c of the second electrode layer E2, in the first direction D201 decreases with the increase in distance from the end portion of the element body 203, in the third direction D203.

(379) In the multilayer capacitor C202 illustrated in FIG. 66, the end edge of the region 205c.sub.2 (end edge E2e of the second electrode layer E2) is approximately linear when viewed from the second direction D202. When viewed from the second direction D202, the region 205c.sub.2 (second electrode layer E2 included in the region 205c.sub.2) has an approximately triangle shape. In the multilayer capacitor C202 illustrated in FIG. 67, the end edge of the region 205c.sub.2 (end edge E2e of the second electrode layer E2) has an approximately arc shape when viewed from the second direction D202.

(380) In the multilayer capacitor C202 illustrated in FIG. 68, a width of the region 205c.sub.2 (second electrode layer E2) in the third direction D203 is approximately equal in the first direction D201. When viewed from the second direction D202, the end edge of the region 205c.sub.2 (end edge E2e of the second electrode layer E2) has a side edge extending in the third direction D203 and a side edge extending in the third direction D201. In the present modification, when viewed from the second direction D202, the region 205c.sub.2 (second electrode layer E2 included in the region 205c.sub.2) has an approximately rectangular shape.

Tenth Embodiment

(381) A configuration of a multilayer feedthrough capacitor C203 according to a tenth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 69 to 76. FIGS. 69 and 70 are plan views of a multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the tenth embodiment. FIG. 71 is a side view of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the tenth embodiment. FIG. 72 is an end view of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the tenth embodiment. FIGS. 73, 74, and 75 are views illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer feedthrough capacitor according to the tenth embodiment. FIG. 76 is a side view illustrating an element body, a first electrode layer, and a second electrode layer. In the tenth embodiment, an electronic component is, for example, the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C203.

(382) As illustrated in FIGS. 69 to 72, the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C203 includes the element body 203, the pair of external electrodes 205, and an external electrodes 206. The pair of external electrodes 205 and the external electrode 206 are disposed on the outer surface of the element body 203. The pair of external electrodes 205 and the external electrode 206 are separated from each other. The pair of external electrodes 205 functions as, for example, signal terminal electrodes. The external electrode 206 functions as, for example, a ground terminal electrode. In the present embodiment, the element body 203 is configured by laminating a plurality of dielectric layers in the first direction D201.

(383) As illustrated in FIGS. 73, 74, and 75, the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C203 includes a plurality of internal electrodes 217 and a plurality of internal electrodes 219. Each of the internal electrodes 217 and 219 is an internal conductor disposed in the element body 203. As with the internal electrodes 207 and 209, the internal electrodes 217 and 219 are made of a conductive material that is usually used as an internal electrode of a multilayer electronic component. Also in the tenth embodiment, the internal electrodes 207 and 209 are made of Ni.

(384) The internal electrodes 217 and the internal electrodes 219 are disposed in different positions (layers) in the first direction D201. The internal electrodes 217 and the internal electrodes 219 are alternately disposed in the element body 203 to oppose each other in the first direction D201 with an interval therebetween. Polarities of the internal electrodes 217 and the internal electrodes 219 are different from each other. In a case in which the lamination direction of the plurality of dielectric layers is the second direction D202, the internal electrodes 217 and the internal electrodes 219 are disposed in different positions (layers) in the second direction D202. Both ends of the internal electrode 217 are exposed to the pair of end surfaces 203e. Both ends of the internal electrode 219 are exposed to the pair of side surfaces 203c.

(385) As with the external electrodes 205 of the multilayer capacitor C201, the external electrodes 205 are disposed at both end portions of the element body 203 in the third direction D203. Each of the external electrodes 205 is disposed on a corresponding end surface 203e side of the element body 203. The external electrode 205 includes the electrode portions 205a, 205b, 205c, and 205e. The electrode portion 205a is disposed on the principal surface 203a and on the ridge portion 203g. The electrode portion 205b is disposed on the ridge portion 203h. The electrode portion 205c is disposed on each ridge portion 203i. The electrode portion 205e is disposed on the corresponding end surface 203e. The external electrode 205 also includes electrode portions disposed on the ridge portions 203j. The electrode portion 205c is also disposed on the side surface 203c. The electrode portion 205e covers all the ends exposed at the end surface 203e of the internal electrodes 217. The internal electrode 217 is directly connected to the electrode portion 205e. The internal electrode 217 is electrically connected to the pair of external electrodes 205.

(386) The first electrode layer E1 included in the external electrode 205 is formed on the end surface 203e to be connected to the internal electrode 217. The first electrode layer E1 included in the external electrode 205 is formed to cover the entire end surface 203e, the entire ridge portion 203g, the entire ridge portion 203h, and the entire ridge portion 203i. The second electrode layer E2 included in the external electrode 205 is formed to continuously cover a part of the principal surface 203a, a part of the end surface 203e, and a part of each of the pair of side surfaces 203c. The second electrode layer E2 included in the external electrode 205 is formed to cover the entire ridge portion 203g, a part of the ridge portion 203i, and a part of the ridge portion 203j. The second electrode layer E2 included in the external electrode 205 includes portions each corresponding to the part of the principal surface 203a, the part of the end surface 203e, the part of each of the pair of side surfaces 203c, the entire ridge portion 203g, the part of the ridge portion 203i, and the part of the ridge portion 203j. The first electrode layer E1 included in the external electrode 205 is directly connected to the internal electrodes 217.

(387) The first electrode layer E1 included in the external electrode 205 includes a region covered with the second electrode layer E2 and a region not covered with the second electrode layer E2. The third electrode layer E3 and fourth electrode layer E4 included in the external electrode 205 are formed to cover the region of the first electrode layer E1 not covered with the second electrode layer E2 and the second electrode layer E2. The second electrode layer E2 included in the external electrode 205 includes a portion located on the side surface 203c.

(388) As illustrated in FIG. 76, in the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C203, a width of the region 205c.sub.2 in the third direction D203 decreases with an increase in distance from the principal surface 203a (electrode portion 205a), as is the case in the multilayer capacitor C201. A width of the region 205c.sub.2 in the first direction D201 decreases with an increase in distance from the end surface 203e (electrode portion 205e). In the present embodiment, an end edge of the region 205c.sub.2 has an approximately arc shape when viewed from the second direction D202. The region 205c.sub.2 has an approximately fan shape when viewed from the second direction D202. Also in the present embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the width of the second electrode layer E2 viewed from the second direction D202 decreases with an increase in distance from the principal surface 203a. When viewed from the second direction D202, a length of the second electrode layer E2 in the first direction D201 decreases with an increase in distance from the principal surface 203e in the third direction D203. When viewed from the second direction D202, a length, of the portion located on the side surface 203c of the second electrode layer E2, in the first direction D201 decreases with an increase in distance from the end portion of the element body 203, in the third direction D203. The end edge E2e of the second electrode layer E2 has an approximately arc shape.

(389) The external electrode 206 is disposed on a central portion of the element body 203 in the third direction D203. The external electrode 206 is located between the pair of external electrodes 205. The external electrode 206 includes an electrode portion 206a and a pair of electrode portions 206c. The electrode portion 206a is disposed on the principal surface 203a. Each of the electrode portions 206c is disposed on the side surface 203c and on the ridge portions 203j and 203k. The external electrode 206 is formed on the three surfaces, that is, the principal surface 203a and the pair of side surfaces 203c, as well as on the ridge portions 203j and 203k. The electrode portions 206a and 206c adjacent each other are coupled and are electrically connected to each other. The electrode portion 206c covers all the ends exposed at the side surface 203c of the internal electrodes 219. The internal electrode 219 is directly connected to each electrode portion 206c. The internal electrode 219 is electrically connected to the one external electrode 206.

(390) As illustrated in FIGS. 73, 74, and 75, the external electrode 206 also includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The fourth electrode layer E4 is the outermost layer of the external electrode 206. The electrode portion 206a includes the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. Each of the electrode portions 206c includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4.

(391) The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 206a is disposed on the principal surface 203a. The electrode portion 206a does not include the first electrode layer E1. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 206a is formed to cover a part of the principal surface 203a. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 206a is in contact with the principal surface 203a. The third electrode layer E3 and fourth electrode layer E4 included in the electrode portion 206a is formed to cover the second electrode layer E2. The electrode portion 206a has a three-layer structure.

(392) The first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 206c is disposed on the side surface 203c and on each ridge portions 203j and 203k. The first electrode layer E1 included in the electrode portion 206c is formed to cover a part of the side surface 203c, a part of the ridge portion 203j, and a part of the ridge portion 203k. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 206c is disposed on the first electrode layer E1, on the side surface 203c, and on the ridge portion 203j. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 206c is formed to cover a part of the first electrode layer E1, a part of the side surface 203c, and a part of the ridge portion 203j. The part of the first electrode layer E1 is covered with the second electrode layer E2. In the electrode portion 206c, the part of the first electrode layer E1 is in contact with a part of the second electrode layer E2. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 206c is in contact with the part of the side surface 203c and the part of the ridge portion 203j. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 206c includes a portion located on the side surface 203c.

(393) In the electrode portion 206c, regions covered with the first electrode layer E1 in the side surface 203c and ridge portion 203j is covered with the second electrode layer E2 with the first electrode layer E1 therebetween. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 206c is formed to indirectly cover the part of the side surface 203c and the part of the ridge portion 203j. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 206c is also formed to directly cover a part of the side surface 203c and a part of the ridge portion 203j. The second electrode layer E2 included in the electrode portion 206c is formed to directly cover an entire portion of the first electrode layer E1 formed on the ridge portion 203g.

(394) The electrode portion 203c includes a region 203c.sub.1 and a region 206c.sub.2. The region 206c.sub.2 is located closer to the principal surface 203a than the region 206c.sub.1. In the present embodiment, the electrode portion 206c includes only two regions 206c.sub.1 and 206c.sub.2. The region 206c.sub.1 includes the first electrode layer E1, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 206c.sub.1 does not include the second electrode layer E2. The region 206c.sub.1 has a three-layer structure. The region 206c.sub.2 includes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, the third electrode layer E3, and the fourth electrode layer E4. The region 206c.sub.2 has a four-layer structure. The region 206c.sub.1 is the region where the first electrode layer E1 is exposed from the second electrode layer E2. The region 206c.sub.2 is the region where the first electrode layer E1 is covered with the second electrode layer E2.

(395) The third electrode layer E3 included in the external electrode 206 is formed on the second electrode layer E2 and on the first electrode layer E1 (portion of the first electrode layer E1 exposed from the second electrode layer E2) by plating method. The fourth electrode layer E4 is formed on the third electrode layer E3 by plating method. As with the first electrode layer E1 included in the external electrode 205, the first electrode layer E1 included in the external electrode 206 is not intentionally formed on the pair of principal surfaces 203a and 203b. In the external electrode 206, the first electrode layer E1 may be unintentionally formed on the principal surfaces 203a and 203b due to a production error, for example.

(396) The second electrode layer E2 included in each of the electrode portions 206a and 206c is integrally formed. The third electrode layer E3 included in each of the electrode portions 206a and 206c is integrally formed. The fourth electrode layer E4 included in each of the electrode portions 206a and 206c is integrally formed.

(397) Next, a configuration of the external electrode 206 will be described.

(398) As illustrated in FIG. 76, when viewed from the second direction D202, an end region near the principal surface 203a of the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the region 206c.sub.2) is covered with the second electrode layer E2. When viewed from the second direction D202, an end edge E2e of the second electrode layer E2 crosses an end edge E1e of the first electrode layer E1. When viewed from the second direction D202, an end region near the principal surface 203b of the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the region 206c.sub.1) is exposed from the second electrode layer E2.

(399) As illustrated in FIG. 71, a width of the region 206c.sub.2 in the third direction D203 decreases with an increase in distance from the principal surface 203a (electrode portion 206a). In the present embodiment, an end edge of the region 206c.sub.2 has an approximately arc shape when viewed from the second direction D202. The region 206c.sub.2 has an approximately semicircular shape when viewed from the second direction D202. In the present embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 76, the width of the second electrode layer E2 viewed from the second direction D202 decreases with an increase in distance from the principal surface 203a. When viewed from the second direction D202, the end edge E2e of the second electrode layer E2 included in region 206c.sub.2 has an approximately arc shape.

(400) The multilayer feedthrough capacitor C203 is also solder-mounted on the electronic device. In the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C203, the principal surface 203a is arranged to constitute a mounting surface opposing the electronic device. The principal surface 203b may be arranged to constitute a mounting surface opposing the electronic device. In the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C203, the external electrode 206 may not include the electrode portion 206a.

(401) As with the multilayer capacitor C201, the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C203 has the following operations and effects.

(402) Occurrence of a crack in the element body 203 is suppressed and moisture resistance reliability is improved. Each of the external electrodes 205 and each of the internal electrodes 217 are reliably electrically connected to each other. Each of the external electrodes 206 and each of the internal electrodes 219 are reliably electrically connected to each other. Peel-off of the second electrode layer E2 tends not to develop to a position corresponding to the end surface 203e. An increase in ESR is suppressed.

(403) The multilayer feedthrough capacitor C203 also has the following operations and effects.

(404) Regarding the external electrode 206 as well as regarding the external electrode 205, when viewed from the second direction D202, the end region near the principal surface 203a of the first electrode layer E1 (first electrode layer E1 included in the region 206c.sub.2) is covered with the second electrode layer E2. Therefore, the stress tends not to concentrate on the end edge of the first electrode layer E1 included in the region 206c.sub.2. Consequently, in the multilayer capacitor C203, occurrence of a crack in the element body 203 is suppressed.

(405) In the multilayer capacitor C203, regarding the external electrode 206 as well as regarding the external electrode 205, when viewed from the second direction D202, the end edge E2e of the second electrode layer E2 crosses the end edge Ele of the first electrode layer E1. The entirety of the first electrode layer E1 is not covered with the second electrode layer E2. The first electrode layer E1 includes the region exposed from the second electrode layer E2. Therefore, in the multilayer capacitor C203, an increase in an amount of conductive resin paste used for forming the second electrode layer E2 is suppressed.

(406) In the region 206c.sub.1 included in the electrode portion 206c, the first electrode layer E1 is exposed from the second electrode layer E2. The region 206c.sub.1 does not include the second electrode layer E2. At the region 206c.sub.1, the first electrode layer E1 is electrically connected to the electronic device without passing through the second electrode layer E2. Therefore, in the multilayer capacitor C203, an increase in ESR is suppressed.

(407) The region 206c.sub.2 included in the electrode portion 206c includes the second electrode layer E2. Therefore, even in a case in which the external electrode 206 includes the electrode portion 206c, the stress tends not to concentrate on the end edge of the external electrode 206. The end edge of the external electrode 206 tends not to serve as an origination of a crack. Consequently, in the multilayer capacitor C203, the occurrence of the crack in the element body 203 is reliably suppressed.

(408) In the multilayer capacitor C203, the width of the region 206c.sub.2 in the third direction D203 decreases with the increase in distance from the principal surface 203a. The width of the second electrode layer E2 viewed from the second direction D202 decreases with the increase in distance from the principal surface 203a. Therefore, the occurrence of the crack in the element body 203 is suppressed, and the increase in the amount of conductive resin paste used for forming the second electrode layer E2 is further suppressed.

(409) In the present invention, the end edge of the region 205c.sub.2 (end edge E2e of the second electrode layer E2) may be approximately linear, and may have a side edge extending in the third direction D203 and a side edge extending in the first direction D201. The end edge of the region 206c.sub.2 (end edge E2e of the second electrode layer E2) may be approximately linear, and may have a side edge extending in the third direction D203 and a side edge extending in the first direction D201.

(410) The ninth and tenth embodiments may be configured as follows.

(411) The first electrode layer E1 may be formed on the principal surface 203a to extend over the ridge portion 203g entirely or partially from the end surface 203e. The first electrode layer E1 may be formed on the principal surface 203b to extend beyond the ridge portion 203h entirely or partially from the end surface 203e. The first electrode layer E1 may be formed on the side surface 203c to extend beyond the ridge portion 203i entirely or partially from the end surface 203e.

(412) As illustrated in FIGS. 77 and 78, the first electrode layer E1 may be formed, for example, on each of the principal surfaces 203a and 203b and each of the side surfaces 203c. In FIGS. 77 and 78, the first electrode layer E1 is formed on the principal surface 203a to extend over the entire ridge portion 203g from the end surface 203e. The first electrode layer E1 is formed on the principal surface 203b to extend beyond the entire ridge portion 203h from the end surface 203e. The first electrode layer E1 is formed on the side surface 203c to extend beyond the entire ridge portion 203i from the end surface 203e. In the modification illustrated in FIGS. 77 and 78, as illustrated in FIG. 77, an entirety of the portion of the first electrode layer E1 formed on the principal surface 203a is covered with the second electrode layer E2. As illustrated in FIG. 78, a part of the portion of the first electrode layer E1 formed on the side surface 203c (first electrode layer E1 included in the region 205c.sub.2) is covered with the second electrode layer E2. The first electrode layer E1 formed on each of the principal surfaces 203a and 203b and each of the side surfaces 203c is covered with the third electrode layer E3 and fourth electrode layer E4.

(413) The plating layer (third and fourth electrode layers E3 and E4) indirectly covers the portion of the first electrode layer E1 formed on the principal surface 203a and the first electrode layer E1 included in the region 205c.sub.2 with the second electrode layer E2 therebetween. The plating layer (third and fourth electrode layers E3 and E4) directly covers the portion of the first electrode layer E1 formed on the principal surface 203b and a part of the portion of the first electrode layer E1 formed on the side surface 203c (first electrode layer E1 included in the region 205c.sub.1). The electrode portion disposed on the principal surface 203a has a four-layer structure. The electrode portion disposed on the principal surface 203b has a three-layer structure. The electrode portion disposed on the region near the principal surface 203b in the side surface 203c has a three-layer structure. The electrode portion disposed on the region near the principal surface 203a in the side surface 203c has a four-layer structure. The electrode portion disposed on the region near the principal surface 203b in the end surface 203e has a three-layer structure. The electrode portion disposed on the region near the principal surface 203a in the end surface 203e has a four-layer structure.

(414) The number of the internal electrodes 207 and 209 included in the multilayer capacitor C201 or C202 is not limited to the number of the internal electrodes 207 and 209 illustrated in FIGS. 59 and 61. The number of the internal electrodes 217 and 219 included in the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C203 is not limited to the number of the internal electrodes 217 and 219 illustrated in FIGS. 73 and 75. In the multilayer capacitor C201 or C202, the number of the internal electrodes connected to one external electrode 205 (first electrode layer E1) may be one. In the multilayer feedthrough capacitor C203, the number of the internal electrode connected to one pair of external electrodes 205 (first electrode layer E1) may be one. The number of the internal electrodes connected to one pair of external electrodes 206 (first electrode layer E1) may be one.

(415) Next, configurations of multilayer capacitors according to modifications of the ninth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 79 and 80. FIGS. 79 and 80 are an end view illustrating an element body, a first electrode layer, and a second electrode layer. In the modifications illustrated in FIGS. 79 and 80, a shape of the second electrode layer E2 included in the region 205e.sub.2 is different from that of the multilayer capacitor C201.

(416) In the multilayer capacitor illustrated in FIG. 79, the second electrode layer E2 included in the region 205e.sub.2 consists of a plurality of portions E2.sub.1 and E2.sub.2. In the present modification, the second electrode layer E2 included in the region 205e.sub.2 consists of two portions E2.sub.1 and E2.sub.2. Each of the portions E2.sub.1 and E2.sub.2 are separated from each other. The first electrode layer E1 is exposed between the portion E2.sub.1 and the portion E2.sub.2. The plurality of internal electrodes 207 and 209 includes an internal electrode including one end not overlapping with the second electrode layer E2 (portions E2.sub.1 and E2.sub.2) when viewed from the third direction D203. The number of the internal electrode including the one end not overlapping with the second electrode layer E2 (portions E2.sub.1 and E2.sub.2) may be one or more. The second electrode layer E2 included in the region 205e.sub.2 may consist of three or more portions.

(417) In the multilayer capacitor illustrated in FIG. 80, when viewed from the third direction D203, the second electrode layer E2 included in the region 205e.sub.2 does not overlap with the one ends of all the internal electrodes 207 and 209. All the internal electrodes 207 and 209 are internal electrodes including one end not overlapping with the second electrode layer E2 (portions E2.sub.1 and E2.sub.2) when viewed from the third direction D203.

(418) For example, the ninth and tenth embodiments disclose the following notes.

(419) (Note 1)

(420) An electronic component includes

(421) an element body of a rectangular parallelepiped shape including a first principal surface arranged to constitute a mounting surface, a second principal surface opposing the first principal surface in a first direction, a pair of side surfaces opposing each other in a second direction, and a pair of end surfaces opposing each other in a third direction, and

(422) external electrodes disposed at both end portions of the element body in the third direction.

(423) The external electrode includes a conductive resin layer located on the side surface.

(424) When viewed from the second direction, a length of the conductive resin layer in the first direction decreases with an increase in distance from the corresponding end portion in the third direction.

(425) (Note 2)

(426) The electronic component according to note 1, wherein

(427) when viewed from the second direction, an end edge of the conductive resin layer has an approximately arc shape.

(428) (Note 3)

(429) The electronic component according to note 1, wherein

(430) when viewed from the second direction, an end edge of the conductive resin layer is approximately linear.

(431) (Note 4)

(432) The electronic component according to any one of notes 1 to 3, wherein

(433) the conductive resin layer is located on the first principal surface and on the end surface.

(434) (Note 5)

(435) The electronic component according to note 4, wherein

(436) the conductive resin layer is formed to cover a part of the first principal surface, a part of the end surface, a part of the side surface, a part of a ridge portion located between the first principal surface and the side surface, and an entire ridge portion located between the first principal surface and the end surface.

(437) (Note 6)

(438) The electronic component according to any one of notes 1 to 5 includes an internal conductor exposed to the corresponding end surface.

(439) The external electrode further includes a sintered metal layer formed on the end surface to be connected to the internal conductor.

(440) (Note 7)

(441) The electronic component according to note 6, wherein

(442) the sintered metal layer includes a first region covered with the conductive resin layer and a second region exposed from the conductive resin layer.

(443) (Note 8)

(444) The electronic component according to note 7, wherein

(445) the external electrode further includes a plating layer formed to cover the conductive resin layer and the second region included in the sintered metal layer.

(446) Although the preferred embodiments and modifications of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not necessarily limited to the above-described embodiments and modifications, and various modifications can be made without departing from the gist thereof.

(447) In the embodiments and the modifications described above, the multilayer capacitors C1, C2, C4, C5, C103, and C201, and the multilayer feedthrough capacitors C3, C6, C7, C101, and C203 are exemplified as electronic components, but applicable electronic components are not limited to multilayer capacitors and multilayer feedthrough capacitors. Applicable electronic components are, for example, multilayer electronic components such as multilayer inductors, multilayer varistors, multilayer piezoelectric actuators, multilayer thermistors, multilayer composite components, or the like, or electronic components other than multilayer electronic components.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

(448) The present invention can be used for a multilayer capacitor or a multilayer feedthrough capacitor.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

(449) 3 element body 3a, 3b principal surface 3c, 3e side surface 5, 13, 15, 21, 31 external electrode 5a, 5b, 5c, 5e, 13a, 13b, 13c, 13e, 15a, 15b, 15c, 21a, 21b, 21c, 31a, 31b, 31c, 31e electrode portion 5c.sub.1, 5c.sub.2, 5e.sub.1, 5e.sub.2, 13c.sub.1, 13c.sub.2, 13e.sub.1, 13e.sub.2, 15c.sub.1, 15c.sub.2, 21c.sub.1, 21c.sub.2, 31c.sub.1, 31c.sub.2, 31e.sub.1, 31e.sub.2 region included in the electrode portion C1, C2, C4, C5 multilayer capacitor C3, C6, C7 multilayer feedthrough capacitor E1 first electrode layer E2 second electrode layer E3 third electrode layer E4 fourth electrode layer ECD1 electronic component device ED electronic device PE1, PE2 pad electrode SF solder fillet.