Is V0 the Voltage Drop Across R1 or R2 in a Voltage Divider?

In summary, the discussion is about the voltage divider in a circuit and the confusion over which resistor, R1 or R2, has the voltage drop. The answer is that V0 is the voltage drop across R2 and the confusion may be due to the common practice of considering the conductor connecting the negative terminal of the battery as being at zero Volts.
  • #1
tylerc1991
166
0

Homework Statement



This is more of a theoretical question than an actual numerical problem (so mods please move if this is in the wrong place).

The circuit below was copied from my book. Ultimately we are discussing the voltage divider. The book goes on to say that V0 is the voltage drop across R2. But I thought that conventional current flows from the positive terminal to the negative terminal. This would mean that V0 is the voltage drop across R1, right? Is it the voltage drop I have confused or the voltage divider? or both? Thank you for your help anyone!

Circuit_1.jpg
 
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  • #2
The conductor connecting the negative terminal of the battery with the bottom of R2 is commonly considered to be at zero Volts. Thus, V0 is equal to the voltage dropped across R2.
 

1. What is a voltage divider?

A voltage divider is a basic electronic circuit that divides a voltage into smaller fractions. It consists of two resistors connected in series, and the output voltage is taken at the connection between the two resistors.

2. How does a voltage divider work?

A voltage divider works by using the principle of Ohm's law, which states that the current passing through a resistor is directly proportional to the voltage across it. In a voltage divider, the two resistors create a voltage drop, and the output voltage is determined by the ratio of the two resistors.

3. What is the formula for calculating output voltage in a voltage divider?

The formula for calculating output voltage in a voltage divider is Vout = Vin * (R2 / (R1 + R2)), where Vin is the input voltage and R1 and R2 are the values of the two resistors in the circuit.

4. What is the purpose of using a voltage divider?

A voltage divider is commonly used in electronic circuits to provide a specific voltage level for a component. It can also be used to reduce the voltage level of a power source to a level that is safe for a particular component.

5. Are there any limitations or considerations when using a voltage divider?

Yes, there are a few limitations and considerations when using a voltage divider. The first is that the output voltage will vary depending on the current drawn from the circuit. Additionally, the resistors used in the divider must have a high enough power rating to avoid overheating. Finally, for accurate results, the input impedance of the load should be much higher than the resistance of the voltage divider.

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