What type of resistor is typically used for precision applications due to its stability?

The choice of a metal-film resistor for precision applications can be attributed to its excellent stability and low temperature coefficient. These characteristics make metal-film resistors particularly suitable for circuits where accuracy is crucial. They are made by depositing a thin layer of metal onto a ceramic substrate, which results in a more stable resistance value over a wide range of temperatures and environmental conditions.

Metal-film resistors also have lower noise and better tolerance than some other types, providing reliability in precision measurement applications. Their precision is further enhanced by the uniform thickness of the metal film, which leads to consistent performance across different units.

In contrast, other types of resistors, such as carbon-composition, may be less stable and susceptible to changes in temperature and humidity. Wire-wound resistors, while often used in high-power applications, can introduce inductance, which may not be ideal for precision low-frequency applications. Variable resistors, on the other hand, offer adjustable resistance but typically lack the fixed precision required in many sensitive applications. This highlights why metal-film resistors are the go-to choice for precision circuits.