Electronics is a fascinating and rapidly advancing branch of science and technology based around manipulating and controlling the flow of electrons, and its definition now extends to how the motion of these electrons can be utilised and harnesses for a specific purpose. 

Electronics is related to but distinct from electrical science and technology, and made a huge impact to industry, science and technological innovation from the 20th century onwards. The field of electronics has its roots in experiments with electricity, Thomas Edison being the most famous proponent. Edison conducted his experiments by initially observing the flow of current between elements in an evacuated glass tube.

Ever since these discoveries, and particularly the invention of the triode in 1906, huge leaps and bound have been made in the subject, leading to the electronic items and technology people take for granted in the modern world, from radios.

The field encompasses a huge range of technology, and there are many scientific and technical disciplines focused on its different aspects. Research in these fields has led to the development of such crucial components as transistors, lasers, integrated circuits and optical fibres, leading to many products recognisable to anyone living in the modern world, from radios, mobile phones and computers to household appliances.

Use the links below to find out more about electronics, electronic products, and the manufacture of electronics.