What is a characteristic of a thermistor?

A thermistor is a type of resistor whose resistance is highly sensitive to temperature changes, and specifically, its resistance drops as temperature increases. This characteristic makes thermistors very useful in temperature sensing and temperature compensation operations. As the temperature rises, the material of the thermistor changes in a way that allows more current to flow through, leading to a decrease in resistance.

This behavior is particularly advantageous in applications where monitoring and controlling temperature is crucial, such as in HVAC systems, digital thermometers, and automotive sensors. By contrast, other types of resistors behave differently with temperature changes, which is not applicable to a thermistor's function. The design and material of thermistors allow them to precisely gauge temperature changes, making them essential in various electronic and technological applications.