What are the two common components shared by all switches?

The correct answer is grounded in the fundamental operation of switches in electrical circuits. All switches operate by opening or closing a circuit to control the flow of electricity.

Contacts are conductive elements in a switch that make or break the electrical connection when the switch is activated. They are crucial because they determine whether the current can flow through the circuit or not. The act of making contact enables the circuit to close, allowing current to pass; conversely, breaking contact interrupts the circuit and stops the flow of electricity.

Actuators, on the other hand, are the mechanical components that initiate the operation of the switch, whether through manual pressure, a toggle, or electronic signals. They are essential for facilitating user interaction with the switch, transforming the physical action into electrical circuit control.

The combination of contacts and actuators is what defines the switch's function in electrical applications, making them indispensable elements in countless systems, from simple household devices to complex aircraft armament controls.