What type of failure is characterized by a gradual decline in performance leading to system errors?

The type of failure that features a gradual decline in performance leading to system errors is classified as latent failure. This type of failure typically occurs over time and may go unnoticed until a specific threshold is reached, at which point the system begins to show signs of errors or degraded performance. Latent failures can be attributed to a variety of factors, including wear and tear, environmental influences, or design flaws, which accumulate and manifest as operational issues only after a certain period.

In contrast, other failure types differ significantly in their characteristics. Permanent failure refers to a complete loss of system functionality that does not recover without repair. Intermittent failure involves sporadic or unpredictable malfunctions where the system works at times and fails at others, making it harder to diagnose. Transient failure is usually temporary and often caused by external conditions, such as power fluctuations or momentary interruptions, which do not lead to persistent issues. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in evaluating the operational readiness and reliability of avionics systems.