Confused: potential difference vs. voltage drop?

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the concepts of voltage drop and potential difference in a series circuit with resistors R1, R2, and R3. Given a total voltage of 14 V, the equivalent resistance (Req) is calculated as 11 ohms, resulting in a current (I) of 1.27 A. The voltage drop across R1 is determined to be 7.62 V, while the voltage drop across R2 is 3.81 V. The consensus is that 'voltage drop' and 'potential difference' are interchangeable terms in this context.

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Homework Statement



In Fig. 28-5a calculate the potential difference across R2, assuming = 14 V, R1 = 6.0 , R2 = 3.0 , and R3 = 2.0.

(image isn't working online, but it's a simple circuit- all the resistors are in series)

Homework Equations



V = IR

The Attempt at a Solution



Req = R1 + R2 + R3 = 11 ohms
I = V/Req = 14/11 = 1.27 A
V = IR1 = 1.27 * 6 = 7.62 V
V = IR2 = 1.27 * 3 = 3.81 V

So I know the voltage drop across R1 and R2, but I'm confused- what's the difference between calculated voltage drop and the potential difference across the resistor?

Many thanks.
 
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I think 'voltage drop' and 'potential difference' mean exactly the same thing. You seem to be doing just fine.
 

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