3.5.1.5 Potential divider

Question 1

What is a potential divider?

Answer 1

A combination of resistors connected in series around a p.d. source

Question 2

What are potential dividers used for?

Answer 2

To supply a p.d. which is fixed at any value between zero and source p.d.
To supply variable p.d. (by using a variable resistor as one of the resistors in series)
To supply a p.d. that varies with a physical condition such as temperature or pressure or light level

Question 3

What is the equation for V_out?

Answer 3

V_out = R_2/(R_1+R_2) *V_in

Question 4

What is a potentiometer?

Answer 4

A potential divider containing a variable resistor instead of two resistors in series. e.g. they’re used in volume control on a stereo