What is an electronic circuit formed on a small piece of semiconducting material called?

An electronic circuit formed on a small piece of semiconducting material is referred to as an integrated circuit. This term highlights that multiple electronic components such as transistors, resistors, and capacitors are fabricated together in a single piece, or "chip," of semiconductor material. The key characteristic of integrated circuits is their capability to perform various electronic functions while being miniature in size, which leads to significant advantages in reducing the overall footprint of electronic devices, improving performance, and lowering costs in manufacturing.

Integrated circuits are foundational in modern electronics and can range from simple circuits handling basic functions to complex microprocessors that power computers and smartphones. This contrasts with other types of circuits such as discrete circuits, which refer to individual components that are separately housed and connected. The development of integrated circuits has revolutionized the electronics industry by enabling the production of compact, efficient, and highly functional devices.