What function do transistors serve in electronics?

Transistors play a crucial role as electrically operated switches in electronic circuits. By controlling the flow of electric current, transistors can turn circuits on or off. When a small current is applied to the transistor's base, it allows a larger current to flow between the collector and emitter, effectively acting like a switch. This property is fundamental to digital electronics, where transistors are used to represent binary states—on or off, which forms the basis of most electronic devices.

In addition to functioning as switches, transistors can also be used in amplification; however, their primary recognized role in many applications is that of a switch, particularly in logic gates and digital circuits. Understanding this function helps in grasping how complex electronic systems can be built from simple binary operations controlled by transistors.