What could be a consequence of not having a heat sink in an electronic device?

The absence of a heat sink in an electronic device can lead to a risk of overheating. Heat sinks are components designed to dissipate heat generated by electronic devices, particularly those with high power consumption such as CPUs, GPUs, and power transistors. When these devices operate, they generate heat, which, if not properly managed, can raise the internal temperature to levels that can damage components or affect performance.

Overheating can lead to a range of issues, including reduced lifespan of electronic components, throttling (where the device reduces its performance to manage heat), or even complete failure of the device. Therefore, having an effective heat sink is crucial for maintaining optimal operating temperatures and ensuring reliable operation of the device.