What is the difference between a diode and a transistor?

A diode is a two-terminal electronic component that allows current to flow in only one direction, while a transistor is a three-terminal electronic component that can amplify or switch electronic signals.

Diodes are made up of a p-type semiconductor and an n-type semiconductor, which are joined together to form a p-n junction. When a voltage is applied across the diode in the forward direction, the p-n junction allows current to flow, but when the voltage is applied in the reverse direction, the diode acts as an insulator and does not allow current to flow.

Transistors, on the other hand, are made up of three layers of semiconductor material - an emitter, a base, and a collector. By applying a small current to the base, a larger current can be controlled between the emitter and the collector. This property makes transistors useful for amplifying and switching electronic signals.

While diodes are primarily used for rectification and voltage regulation, transistors are used in a wide range of electronic devices, including amplifiers, oscillators, and digital circuits. Both diodes and transistors are essential components in modern electronics and are used in a variety of applications.