Ask AI: In electrical applications, what is the purpose of a relay?

A relay serves a critical role in electrical applications. Its primary purpose is to control a high power or high voltage circuit with a low power signal. In other words, a relay allows a low current circuit to switch on or off a higher current circuit. Relays are utilized when it is necessary to control a circuit by a separate low-power signal, or when several circuits must be controlled by one signal. They provide a level of isolation between the controlling and controlled circuits, especially relevant in the case of high powered devices like motors and equipment, where a direct control signal might not be able to manage the high currents or voltages involved. Moreover, relays can also act as amplifiers, where a small voltage change in the input side can cause a larger voltage change on the output side. They're very common in automation and industrial control systems.

A relay is a type of electrical switch that is activated by an electric current or voltage, allowing a low power circuit to control a higher power circuit. It is commonly used to control a variety of lights, motors, and other electrical devices.