IGCSE Computer Science Paper 1 Definitions Worksheet: 3.2 Input and Output Devices (Modules 283–292)
Name:
Date:
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Key terms
Write what each term means, in your own words.
1
humidity sensor
2
infra-red sensor
3
level sensor
4
light sensor
5
magnetic field sensor
6
moisture sensor
7
pH sensor
8
pressure sensor
9
proximity sensor
10
temperature sensor
Answer Key
IGCSE Computer Science Paper 1 · Modules 283–292 · Student wording will vary for definitions
1humidity sensor — An input device that measures the amount of water vapour (moisture) in the air. Used in weather stations, greenhouses and air conditioning systems.
2infra-red sensor — A sensor that detects infra-red radiation, such as heat given off by people and objects, or a broken infra-red beam. Used in burglar alarms and automatic doors.
3level sensor — A sensor that measures how full a container is by detecting the height of a liquid or solid, e.g. in a water tank, fuel gauge or chemical vat.
4light sensor — An input device that measures how bright the light is and sends the light level to a computer. Used in automatic street lights, screen brightness and greenhouses.
5magnetic field sensor — An input device that detects the presence and strength of a magnetic field. Used in door alarms, compasses, wheel speed counters and metal detectors.
6moisture sensor — An input device that measures the amount of water in a solid material such as soil. Used in automatic plant watering and farming. Not the same as a humidity sensor, which measures air.
7pH sensor — An input device that measures how acidic or alkaline a liquid is on the pH scale and sends the pH value to a computer. Used in water treatment, fish tanks, soil testing and food production.
8pressure sensor — An input device that measures the force applied over an area by a gas, liquid or solid, e.g. in tyre pressure monitors, weather forecasting and pressure pads.
9proximity sensor — A sensor that detects whether an object is nearby, or how far away it is, without touching it. Used in parking sensors, phones turning off the screen during calls and automatic doors.
10temperature sensor — An input device that measures how hot or cold something is. Used in central heating, ovens, greenhouses and weather stations.