Which of the following describes passive circuit elements?

Passive circuit elements are defined by their inability to supply power or provide power gain. These components, which include resistors, capacitors, and inductors, do not amplify signals; instead, they can only consume or store electrical energy. This characteristic distinguishes them from active elements, such as transistors and operational amplifiers, which can amplify signals and control the flow of power within a circuit.

The definition aligns well with the understanding of passive components in electrical engineering. They contribute to circuit functionality through energy storage or dissipation, but they don’t contribute to power gain, making option B the clear choice. Other options refer to components that either generate power or perform conversions, which are characteristics of active devices rather than passive ones.