Can a potential divider output 0V?

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SUMMARY

A potential divider can indeed output 0V across one of its resistors when one of the resistors is set to zero resistance. This scenario typically occurs in a variable resistor configuration, where the slider is positioned at the zero end, effectively connecting both output wires to the same point. The output voltage is dependent on the resistance ratio; however, when one resistance is zero, the output potential difference becomes 0V, confirming the theoretical principles discussed in electrical engineering literature.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of potential dividers and voltage division principles
  • Familiarity with resistor configurations, particularly variable resistors
  • Basic knowledge of Ohm's Law and electrical circuits
  • Concept of resistance values and their impact on voltage output
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of voltage division in electrical circuits
  • Study the characteristics and applications of variable resistors
  • Explore practical examples of potential dividers in circuit design
  • Learn about the implications of zero resistance in circuit functionality
USEFUL FOR

Electrical engineering students, hobbyists working with circuits, and professionals designing voltage divider circuits will benefit from this discussion.

Abbeyb37
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If a potential divider consists of 2 resistors, one of which is a variable resistor, how is it possible to get an output potential difference of 0V across one of the resistors?

All the books say that it is possible to achieve an output of 0V across one of the resistors, in a potential divider arrangement but isn't the output pd reliant on the ratio of the resistances of the resistors, and hence cannot be 0V?

I'm confused... :confused:

Ab
 
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What if one of the resistances is zero?
 
jdavel said:
What if one of the resistances is zero?

Then it has failed in its mission in life - to resist!

- you're right though of course jdavel. The zero resistance setting is generally regarded as the one where the two ouput wires are connected to the same place. Easy to imagine with a sliding Potential divider, where the slider is all the way down at the 'zero' end. (Otherwise, its hard to imagine!)
 

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