Resistor
Resistor
A Resistor (/rɪˈzɪstər/) is a passive two-terminal electrical component that implements electrical resistance as a circuit element.
Etymology
The term "resistor" comes from the property of resistance, which in turn comes from the Latin word "resistere" meaning "to resist, to withstand".
Definition
In electronic circuits, resistors are used to reduce current flow, adjust signal levels, to divide voltages, bias active elements, and terminate transmission lines, among other uses. High-power resistors that can dissipate many watts of electrical power as heat, may be used as part of motor controls, in power distribution systems, or as test loads for generators.
Types of Resistors
There are various types of resistors, including but not limited to:
- Fixed Resistors: These resistors have a fixed resistance value that cannot be changed or adjusted. They are the most common type of resistor.
- Variable Resistors: These resistors have a resistance value that can be adjusted or varied. They are often used in volume controls and light dimmers.
- Thermistors: These are resistors whose resistance changes with temperature. They are often used in temperature sensing circuits.
- Photoresistors: These are resistors whose resistance changes with light intensity. They are often used in light sensing circuits.
Related Terms
- Ohm: The unit of electrical resistance in the International System of Units (SI). Named after German physicist Georg Simon Ohm.
- Ohm's Law: A fundamental principle in electrical engineering that states that the current passing through a conductor between two points is directly proportional to the voltage across the two points.
- Circuit: A closed path in which electric current flows from one point to another.
- Voltage: The electric potential difference between two points.
- Current: The rate at which electric charge flows past a point in a circuit.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Resistor
- Wikipedia's article - Resistor
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