What type of temperature sensor is known for its fast response time?

The correct choice is a thermocouple, which is well-known for its fast response time. This characteristic stems from the design and the materials used in thermocouples. They consist of two different metal wires joined at one end, creating a junction that produces a voltage when exposed to temperature changes. Because they are typically small and can be made with minimal thermal mass, thermocouples can quickly detect and respond to changes in temperature.

This rapid response makes them ideal for applications requiring immediate temperature readings, such as in various cooking equipment where quick adjustments are necessary to maintain optimal cooking conditions. The ability to measure temperatures over a wide range makes them versatile in different commercial food equipment settings.

In contrast, other types of sensors like RTDs (Resistance Temperature Detectors) offer greater accuracy but typically have slower response times due to their construction and the nature of the materials used. Thermistors also respond relatively quickly but generally do not cover as broad a temperature range as thermocouples. Capacitors are not temperature sensors; they are components that store electrical energy, making them irrelevant in the context of temperature measurement.