Which term describes components that amplify, control, or switch signals?

• A. Passive Component
• B. Active Component
• C. Power Source
• D. Load

Answer: (B)

Active components are devices that require external power to operate and can add energy to a signal, enabling amplification, control, or switching. That capability to provide gain and actively modify a signal distinguishes them from passive components, which do not amplify and don’t need power to function. So the term that best describes components that amplify, control, or switch signals is active components. Examples include transistors and operational amplifiers. A power source supplies energy to the circuit but isn’t a signal-processing element, while a load consumes energy rather than shaping the signal.