An optical sensor is a device that detects light and converts it into an electrical signal. These sensors are commonly used in various applications, such as cameras, barcode scanners, and environmental monitoring systems. They can measure different properties of light, including intensity, wavelength, and polarization. Optical sensors work by using materials that respond to light, such as photodiodes or phototransistors. When light hits these materials, they generate a current that can be measured and analyzed. This technology is essential in fields like automotive safety, medical diagnostics, and industrial automation, where accurate light detection is crucial.