What exactly is a microcontroller, and how does it differ from a microprocessor?

Microcontrollers (MCU) integrate CPU, memory & peripherals for dedicated tasks like car airbags or thermostats. Use $10 budget chips (ESP32/Arduino) for pro projects. Source suppliers safely to avoid counterfeits.
Do you know what these letters on the PCB mean?

Essential guide to PCB letters: R=Resistor, C=Capacitor, Q=Transistor, D=Diode. Numbers indicate circuit function & component position. Decode R107, C118 effortlessly!