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9 Difference between Active and Passive Components | Example Explained

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In our daily life, we see various types of electronic components such as bulbs, batteries, etc. These electronics components basically occur in sense of an active component or a passive component.

Before that we should know,

  • What is an active component?
  • What is a passive component?

So, in this tutorial, we will study what are the difference between active and passive components.

Let’s dive into the basics comparison with examples.

Active component vs Passive component

Both componets are compared based on the definition, working role, function, nature, use, example, and other specifications.

#ContentActive ComponentPassive Component
01DefinitionA component that has its own capability to produce electrical energy in an electric circuit is called an Active component.A component that has its own capability to consume electrical energy from other connected input sources is called a Passive component.
02Working RoleThe active component occurs in the form of a Power Source.The passive component occurs in the form of a Load.
03Electric CurrentIt has the ability to amplify, deliver, and control the flow of electrical current. It has the ability to utilize, supply, and store the electrical current. 
04FunctionThe active component is always as Non-linear and Bilateral components. The passive component is always as Linear and Unilateral components.
05Electrical EnergyAs per its working principle, it works as an electrical energy donor. It works as an electrical energy acceptor.
06ExamplesBattery, Generator, Alternator, and other electronic components (LED, Diode, Transistor, Integrated circuit, Vacuum tube) are examples of the active components.Transformer, Resistor, Switches, Voltmeter, Ammeter, Capacitor, and Inductor are some of the examples of the passive component.
07Basic
Function		The main function of the active device is able to generate energy in the form of current and voltage sources (like a battery).The main function of the passive device is able to utilize energy in the form of current and voltage (like a bulb).
08Electrical
Power		External sources (such as a diode, transistor, resistance, and so on) are required to manipulate and to control the power in an electrical circuit.
It does not require external sources to manipulate and to control the power.

09. Electrical Circuit Diagram

In an electrical and electronic circuit, both active and passive components are the most fundamental parts to make a complete circuit or active path.

Let’s see the given basic electric circuit that connected both components.

Note: In an electrical circuit, at least a single active component is required. Because, this active component (like a battery) generates energy in the form of voltage and current sources.

I have compared all the basic points to differentiate active and passive elements with the help of a circuit diagram. Hopefully, you can easily understand.

Related More Comparision:

If you have any queries related to the difference between active and passive components, you can ask me in the comment section below.

Thanks for Reading!

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17 thoughts on “9 Difference between Active and Passive Components | Example Explained”

  7. I didn’t understand the diagram as you have stated above battery as an active component where as in diagram it shows battery as an passive component. same for electrical bulb too.

    Reply

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