integrated circuit (IC)

An integrated circuit (IC) is a small, flat piece of semiconductor material—usually silicon—that contains many tiny electronic components like transistors, resistors, and capacitors. These components are interconnected to perform a specific function, such as processing data or controlling devices. Think of an IC as a miniaturized electronic "brain" that replaces larger, individual components, enabling complex functions in a compact, reliable, and efficient form. ICs are fundamental to modern electronics, powering everything from computers and smartphones to household appliances.