Why is negative feedback essential in op-amp circuits?

Negative feedback is essential in operational amplifier (op-amp) circuits primarily because it stabilizes performance. When negative feedback is applied, a portion of the output signal is fed back to the inverting input. This configuration helps to control the gain of the op-amp and makes it more predictable and stable.

By reducing the overall gain of the circuit, negative feedback diminishes the effects of variations in temperature, power supply fluctuations, and other factors that could otherwise cause the performance of the op-amp to become erratic. As a result, the output becomes more linear and less prone to distortion, providing a more accurate representation of the input signal.

Moreover, stabilization through negative feedback allows the op-amp to maintain consistent performance across different operating conditions, ensuring reliability in a variety of applications, such as amplification and signal processing. This is why option C is the correct answer, highlighting the significance of negative feedback in achieving a stable and reliable operation in op-amp circuits.