An op-amp is used in a circuit where the input voltage exceeds the power supply limits. Which of the following outcomes best describes what occurs due to output saturation?

When the input voltage pushes the op‑amp beyond its supply rails, the amplifier can no longer linearly amplify the signal; instead the output voltage is forced to sit at the nearest supply rail and stays there. This “clipping” or saturation means the output no longer follows the input, and the difference between the two input terminals is no longer maintained. The amplifier is essentially “stuck” at the high or low rail, regardless of how the input continues to rise or fall. For example, if an op‑amp powered from +5 V and –5 V sees a +10 V input, its output will simply sit at +5 V until the input falls back within the linear range. The result is a distorted, flat‑lined output that can damage connected circuitry if not properly handled.