What is a potential divider?

A circuit that has two or more resistors in series with a power supply. 

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A potential divider has two resistors in series. If the output voltage is half the supply voltage, the resistors must be..

identical

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What is the formula linking input voltage, output voltage and resistors Rand R2?

 

Vout = R1 + R2R2 × Vin


Vout = output voltage (V)

Vin = input voltage (V)

R1 = resistance of resistor 1 (Ω\Omega)

R2 = resistance of resistor 2 (Ω\Omega)

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Give some uses of a variable potential divider.

  1. Volume control for a loudspeaker.
  2. Brightness control for a dimmer switch.
  3. Variable power supply.

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What would happen to ammeter reading if the circuit is placed in bright light?

The ammeter reading increases.


In bright light the LDR has a lower resistance, resulting in a higher circuit current.

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What would happen to the reading on the voltmeter if the circuit is placed in bright light?

The reading on the voltmeter increases. 


In bright light the LDR has a lower resistance. The fixed resistor represents a greater proportion of the overall resistance.

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