What is the term for circuits where all components are formed on a single silicon chip?

The term for circuits where all components are formed on a single silicon chip is integrated circuits (IC). Integrated circuits are crucial in modern electronic devices because they miniaturize and optimize the functionality of electronic components, allowing for improved performance and reduced physical size.

An integrated circuit can encompass a variety of components such as transistors, resistors, capacitors, and diodes, all interconnected within a single piece of silicon. This integration significantly enhances the efficiency and speed of electronic systems while lowering costs due to reduced material requirements and manufacturing simplifications.

In contrast, hybrid circuits combine both integrated and discrete components but do not have all functionality on a single chip. Discrete circuits consist of individual components that are not integrated, thus needing more space and often resulting in less efficient performance. Microcontrollers, while they do contain integrated circuits, are a specific type of integrated circuit designed for specific tasks such as controlling devices.