An operational amplifier, often abbreviated as op-amp, is an electronic component used to amplify voltage signals. It has two input terminals, one for the positive voltage and one for the negative voltage, and one output terminal. Op-amps are widely used in various applications, including signal processing, filtering, and mathematical operations like addition and subtraction. Op-amps are characterized by their high input impedance and low output impedance, which makes them ideal for interfacing with other electronic components. They can be configured in different ways, such as inverting or non-inverting modes, to achieve desired amplification and signal manipulation.