Which statement correctly describes how analog signals relate to a variable's value?

• A. They provide discrete steps
• B. They provide continuous variation
• C. They provide binary states only
• D. They cannot indicate position

Answer: (B)

Analog signals represent a variable’s value as a smooth, continuous quantity, so the signal can take any value within a range rather than jumping from one level to another. This is what lets sensors convey precise, real-valued measurements like position, temperature, or voltage that changes gradually. Because of that, they provide continuous variation.

This stands in contrast to digital signals, which change in discrete steps and encode values as distinct levels or on/off states, not every intermediate value. And analog signals can indeed indicate position, such as a potentiometer where the output voltage varies continuously with the shaft angle, giving a precise readout of position.