What role do inductors play in electrical circuits?

Inductors play a crucial role in electrical circuits by storing energy in a magnetic field when an electric current passes through them. The principle behind this operation is based on Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction, where a changing current in the inductor creates a magnetic field that can store energy. When the current flowing through the inductor changes, the inductor will either absorb energy from the circuit or release energy back into the circuit, depending on the direction of the current change. This property makes inductors essential components in various applications, including filtering signals, energy storage in power supplies, and shaping electrical waveforms.

The other choices reflect different functions that are not applicable to inductors. For instance, converting electrical energy into mechanical energy is a function associated with motors. Resisting current flow relates to resistors, which convert electrical energy into heat rather than storing it. Amplifying electrical signals typically involves the use of transistors or operational amplifiers, which serve a different purpose compared to inductors.