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

[tylerc1991]

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!

 

[SammyS]

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.