Temperature sensing technologies: Which of the following sensor types can be used to measure temperature in practical electronics and instrumentation?

Introduction:
Temperature measurement spans wide ranges and environments, so multiple sensor technologies exist. Common options include thermocouples, resistance temperature detectors (RTDs), and thermistors, each with distinct advantages in range, accuracy, response, and cost.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• General-purpose instrumentation context.
• Need to identify valid temperature-sensing elements.
• No extremely specialized niche sensors considered.

Concept / Approach:
Thermocouples generate a voltage (Seebeck effect) and cover very wide ranges. RTDs change resistance linearly and offer high accuracy and stability. Thermistors change resistance nonlinearly with very high sensitivity over narrower ranges. All are legitimate temperature sensors used across industries.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Standards and textbooks list all three in temperature-measurement chapters, and industrial transmitters support all via different front-ends.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Individual choices (thermocouples, RTDs, thermistors) are each correct but incomplete; the most comprehensive correct choice is “All of the above.”

Common Pitfalls:
Selecting a single technology without considering range, accuracy, self-heating, wiring complexity (3-/4-wire RTDs), and need for cold-junction compensation for thermocouples.

Final Answer:
All of the above