Final answer:
An active transducer, such as a microphone, converts sound waves into electrical energy with the help of an external power source. A passive transducer, like a thermocouple, converts temperature into electrical energy without needing an external power source. Microphones are used in aircraft systems for communication, while thermocouples are used for temperature measurements.
Step-by-step explanation:
An active transducer converts one form of energy into another form with the help of an external power source. One example of an active transducer is a microphone. A microphone converts sound waves (acoustic energy) into electrical energy. Inside the microphone, a diaphragm vibrates in response to the sound waves, which causes a coil to move within a magnetic field, generating an electrical signal.
The microphone is commonly used in aircraft systems for communication purposes. It is used in the pilot's headset to capture the pilot's voice and transmit it to the intercom system or the ATC (Air Traffic Control) for communication purposes.
A passive transducer converts one form of energy into another form without needing an external power source. One example of a passive transducer is a thermocouple. A thermocouple converts temperature (thermal energy) into electrical energy. It consists of two different metal wires joined together, and when there is a temperature difference between the junction and the free ends of the wires, a voltage is generated.
Thermocouples are used in aircraft systems for temperature measurements. They can be used to monitor the temperature of engines, air ducts, or other critical components. The temperature data gathered by thermocouples can help ensure the safe operation of the aircraft.