Basic snap action switches are simple, mechanical switches which are used to control the flow of electricity. They consist of a spring-loaded mechanism that allows the switch to be activated when a certain force is applied. The force is then transferred to the switch contacts, which complete an electrical circuit when the switch is activated. This type of switch is used widely in everyday applications as a way of controlling lighting, switches, motors, and other electrical items. Snap action switches are generally very reliable, as the spring-loaded mechanism ensures consistent operation between activation and deactivation. They can be further customized with the addition of special proteins and compounds to improve the switch's response time and sensitivity.