1.
Electronic signal that varies smoothly in time
Explanation
An analog signal refers to an electronic signal that varies smoothly in time. It is a continuous representation of data, where the values can take on any value within a certain range. This is in contrast to a digital signal, which is discrete and can only take on specific values. Analog signals are commonly used in various applications such as audio and video transmission, as they can accurately represent the original information without loss of detail.
2.
Electronic signal that changes in jumps or steps
Explanation
The term "digital" refers to an electronic signal that changes in jumps or steps, rather than continuously. Unlike analog signals that vary smoothly, digital signals are discrete and represent information using binary code, typically 0s and 1s. This allows for more precise and reliable transmission and storage of data, making digital technology widely used in various electronic devices and systems.
3.
Electronic device that stores digitized information
Explanation
A computer is an electronic device that is capable of storing and processing digitized information. It can store data in various formats such as text, images, videos, and audio. Computers have internal storage devices like hard drives and solid-state drives that allow them to store large amounts of data. They also have the capability to read and write data from external storage devices like USB drives and memory cards. Additionally, computers use software and hardware components to process and manipulate the stored information, making them versatile devices for various tasks.
4.
Process of converting an analog signal to a digital signal
Explanation
The process of converting an analog signal to a digital signal is known as digitization. This involves taking continuous analog data and converting it into discrete digital values. This process is commonly used in various applications such as audio and video recording, telecommunications, and data storage. Digitization allows for more efficient transmission, storage, and processing of data, as digital signals can be easily manipulated and reproduced accurately.
5.
Kind of tube used in old televisions instead of semiconductors (1 word)
Explanation
The kind of tube used in old televisions instead of semiconductors is called a vacuum tube. Vacuum tubes are electronic devices that utilize a vacuum to control the flow of electric current. They were commonly used in early television sets and other electronic devices before the advent of semiconductors. Vacuum tubes function by heating a cathode, which releases electrons into the vacuum, and then controlling the flow of these electrons using various electrodes. This technology allowed for amplification and manipulation of electrical signals in early electronic systems.
6.
Element such as silicon or germanium that is a poorer conductor of electricity than a metal but better than a nonmetal
Explanation
A semiconductor is a type of element, such as silicon or germanium, that falls between metals and nonmetals in terms of its conductivity. It is not as good a conductor as a metal, but it is better than a nonmetal. Semiconductors have properties that allow them to conduct electricity under certain conditions and act as insulators under others. They are widely used in electronic devices and technology, such as transistors and integrated circuits.
7.
Adding impurities to change the conductivity of a semiconductor
Explanation
Doping refers to the process of intentionally adding impurities to a semiconductor material in order to alter its electrical conductivity. By introducing foreign atoms into the crystal lattice of the semiconductor, the number of free charge carriers can be increased or decreased, thus modifying its conductivity. This technique is commonly used in the semiconductor industry to create different types of semiconductors, such as p-type and n-type materials, which are essential for the operation of various electronic devices.
8.
Components that are made from combinations of n-type and p-type semiconductors (two words)
Explanation
The term "solid state" refers to a state of matter where the atoms or molecules are closely packed together in a solid form. In the context of the given question, "components that are made from combinations of n-type and p-type semiconductors" are typically found in solid state devices such as transistors, diodes, and integrated circuits. These devices utilize the properties of semiconductors to control the flow of electric current, making them essential in modern electronics. Therefore, the answer "solid state" accurately describes the type of components being referred to in the question.
9.
Component that is useful for converting alternating current to direct current
Explanation
A diode is a component that allows current to flow in only one direction. It has two terminals, an anode and a cathode, and when an alternating current is applied to it, it allows the current to pass through in one direction while blocking it in the opposite direction. This property makes it useful for converting alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC), as it allows only the positive or negative half of the AC waveform to pass through, resulting in a unidirectional flow of current. Therefore, a diode is the correct answer for converting AC to DC.
10.
Circuit made from a single semiconductor chip that may contain millions of transistors and diodes (1 word)
Explanation
The correct answer is "integrated." An integrated circuit refers to a circuit that is made from a single semiconductor chip and can contain millions of transistors and diodes. This technology allows for the miniaturization and integration of electronic components, leading to increased functionality and efficiency in electronic devices.