Which component is part of an automatic control loop along with a sensing element, a transmitter, and a control valve?

In an automatic control loop, the main components work together to maintain a desired setpoint in a system. The sensing element detects a specific variable (such as temperature or pressure) and provides input for the next component, the transmitter, which converts the sensed variable into a signal that can be transmitted to other devices.

The controller is a critical component because it receives the transmitted signal and compares it to the desired setpoint. It processes the difference (known as the error) and determines the appropriate response needed to minimize this difference, ensuring that the system operates within its desired parameters. The controller then sends a command to the control valve, which adjusts the flow of fluid or gas to fine-tune the system.

The other components in the options serve different purposes and are not directly involved as part of the autonomous control loop's core operation. While a transducer converts energy from one form to another—similar to a transmitter—it does not typically perform the controlling function. A transformer is primarily used to change voltage levels in electrical systems and is not directly related to automatic control. A converter also serves the function of changing energy forms (such as AC to DC) or altering signal types but does not integrate into the control loop as the controller does. Thus, the controller is