A potential divider is any circuit that splits the terminal potential difference into smaller units. The simplest potential divider consists only of two resistors. However, they can be used to produce variable potential differences and automatic sensors.
A potential divider is a combination of two resistors in series used to split a potential into two parts.
NB: While it is possible to work out all potential differences from scratch, you can elect to memorise an equation for potential dividers instead:
\(V_1={R_1\varepsilon\over {R_1+R_2}}\)
Use quizzes to practise application of theory.
START QUIZ!
The diagram shows a potential divider
Find the value of V.
The resistance is in the ratio of 1 : 3 so V must be 1/3 of the pd on the other side and both pds add up to give 12.
Alternatively total resistance = 60 Ω so current =12/60 = 1/5 pd across 15 Ω is 15 x 1/5 = 3 V
The diagram shows a potential divider
Find the value of V
The resistance is in the ratio of 3 : 1 so V must be 3 times the pd on the other side and both pds add up to give 12.
Alternatively total resistance = 60 Ω so current =12/60 = 1/5 pd across 45 Ω is 45 x 1/5 = 9 V
The diagram shows a potential divider
The value of V is
The resistors are in the ratio 1/2 so V is 2 x the pd across the other half and both pds add up to 9
The current is 9/18 = 1/2 A so V = 6 x 1/2 = 3 V
How much of Potential divider have you understood?
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