What are devices that measure position, pressure, or velocity known as?

The correct choice is transducers, which are devices that convert one form of energy into another. In the context of measuring position, pressure, or velocity, a transducer takes physical quantities—such as mechanical movement, fluid pressure, or speed—and translates them into an electrical signal that can be measured, displayed, or processed. This capability allows for the monitoring and control of various systems, making transducers essential in automation and control applications.

Transducers play a vital role in various industries by ensuring accurate readings of physical parameters, which is crucial for operational efficiency and safety. For example, a pressure transducer converts the pressure of a fluid into an electrical signal that can be interpreted by a control system, facilitating precise control over pressure-dependent processes.

Other choices represent different functionalities: actuators are devices that convert electrical signals into mechanical motion, control valves regulate the flow of fluids, and sensors generally detect environmental changes but may not transform that information into an electrical signal like transducers do. Understanding the distinctions among these terms helps clarify the roles of different components in industrial and mechanical systems.