What is the purpose of the detector element in an EO system?

The purpose of the detector element in an Electro-Optical (EO) system is to sense the wavelength of the collected energy and convert it to an electrical signal. In EO systems, the detector is crucial because it transforms incoming light or infrared radiation into an electrical signal that can be further processed to form an image or extract information.

The detector's ability to sense different wavelengths is essential for various applications, such as identifying objects based on their thermal signatures or distinguishing between different light wavelengths for imaging purposes. This conversion is fundamental in EO systems, where the aim is to capture and analyze electromagnetic energy from the environment effectively.

While other components in the EO system may focus on filtering, collecting, or displaying the information, it is specifically the detector's role to convert the sensed energy into a usable electrical form. Thus, option B accurately captures the essential function of the detector element within an EO system.