Definition of Active Components
Active components are electronic devices that can control the flow of electrical energy. Unlike passive components, which only dissipate or store energy, active components can amplify signals, generate power, or perform switching functions. They require an external power source to operate and are essential in a wide range of electronic applications.

Examples of Active Components
- **Transistors**:
These are semiconductor devices used for amplification and switching. Transistors can control large currents using smaller input currents, making them fundamental in modern electronics.
- **Operational Amplifiers**:
These are used in signal processing and can amplify voltage signals. They are often utilized in filters, oscillators, and analog computing.
- **Diodes**:
While primarily passive, certain diodes like Zener diodes are considered active components because they can regulate voltage in circuits.
- **Integrated Circuits (ICs)**:
These are assemblies of multiple active components in a single package, performing complex functions such as microprocessing, signal conditioning, or control.

Importance of Active Components
- **Signal Amplification**:
Active components like transistors and op-amps amplify weak signals, making them suitable for processing.
- **Power Generation**:
Devices such as oscillators generate signals and power, crucial for various applications, including radio transmission.
- **Versatility**:
Active components can be configured in numerous ways to perform different tasks, from simple amplification to complex signal processing.
In summary, active components play a vital role in modern electronics by enabling control and manipulation of electrical energy, making them indispensable in various applications ranging from consumer electronics to sophisticated computing systems.