Electronics: Components and Functions Flashcards
6 cards from real AFCT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Electronics: Components and Functions flashcards as text
What is the primary function of a transistor in an electronic circuit?
Answer: To amplify or switch electronic signals
Transistors are semiconductor devices that can amplify weak signals or act as electronic switches. They are the fundamental building blocks of modern electronics, from amplifiers to digital logic gates.
What component is used to store energy in an electric field between two conductive plates?
Answer: Capacitor
A capacitor stores energy in the electric field between two conductive plates separated by a dielectric (insulating) material. The capacitance depends on plate area, plate separation, and the dielectric constant.
What does a diode do in a circuit?
Answer: Allows current to flow in one direction only
A diode is a semiconductor device that allows current to flow primarily in one direction (forward-biased) while blocking it in the reverse direction. It acts as an electronic one-way valve.
What is the function of an inductor in an electronic circuit?
Answer: To store energy in a magnetic field when current flows through it
An inductor stores energy in its magnetic field when current flows through its coil of wire. It opposes changes in current, making it useful in filters, transformers, and energy storage applications.
What type of resistor changes its resistance based on temperature?
Answer: Thermistor
A thermistor is a temperature-sensitive resistor whose resistance changes significantly with temperature. NTC thermistors decrease in resistance as temperature rises, while PTC thermistors increase in resistance.
What is the purpose of a voltage regulator in a power supply circuit?
Answer: To maintain a constant output voltage regardless of input voltage or load changes
A voltage regulator maintains a steady, constant output voltage despite variations in input voltage or changes in the load current. This protects sensitive electronic components that require stable voltage levels.