Which electronic components can be built into an integrated circuit?

An integrated circuit (IC) is a single, miniaturized unit that incorporates various electronic components fabricated onto a thin substrate of semiconductor material, typically silicon.1

These components are categorized into two main types:

• Active devices: These include transistors and diodes, which are essential for controlling the flow of electricity and performing operations like signal amplification.1
• Passive devices: These include resistors and capacitors, which are integrated alongside active devices to complete the circuit.1

The components are connected by thin paths of metal, such as aluminum or copper, which serve as the wiring for the circuit. By integrating these elements onto a single monolithic chip, engineers can create complex electronic systems that are significantly more compact, reliable, and cost-effective than those built with discrete components.12