Voltage Variation w/ Variable Resistor: Correct?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of a variable resistor and how it affects the voltage drop in a circuit. The value of R2 does not change, but the location of the voltmeter probe can affect the measured voltage. The schematic for a variable resistor is also mentioned.
  • #1
Lay1
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Homework Statement
Determine the minimum and maximum voltage from the voltage divider in the figure.
Relevant Equations
V=IR
V(drop)=Rx/Rt * Vs
20230411_194922.jpg

In this figure, I suppose the maximum voltage is when R2=1kohm and the minimum voltage is when R2=0kohm, which means R2 is a variable resistor. Is the way I think is correct or not? Please give me suggestions. Thank you.
 
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  • #2
No. The value of R2 doesn't change. What changes is the portion of the voltage drop that is above or below the tap point where Vout measured. Imagine that R2 is a bar of resistive material, and you are changing the location of your voltmeter + probe along that bar. One extreme has the probe at the R3 end, the other is at the R2 end, but the resistors and currents don't change.
 
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  • #3
The variable resistor you described would be drawn like this in a schematic. It only has two connections, and it's value does change from 0 to the indicated value.
1280px-Variable_resistor_symbol.svg.png
 
  • #4
DaveE said:
No. The value of R2 doesn't change. What changes is the portion of the voltage drop that is above or below the tap point where Vout measured. Imagine that R2 is a bar of resistive material, and you are changing the location of your voltmeter + probe along that bar. One extreme has the probe at the R3 end, the other is at the R2 end, but the resistors and currents don't change.
So, what you mean is that the voltmeter measures with R2 for maximum voltage drop and for minimum, without R2, but for R3. In all cases, R2 is not considered as a variable resistor. Thank you for your precious reply.
 
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  • #5
DaveE said:
The variable resistor you described would be drawn like this in a schematic. It only has two connections, and it's value does change from 0 to the indicated value.
View attachment 324752
Yes, thank you for your information.
 

FAQ: Voltage Variation w/ Variable Resistor: Correct?

What is a variable resistor, and how does it work?

A variable resistor, also known as a potentiometer or rheostat, is a resistor whose resistance can be adjusted manually. It works by varying the length of the resistive material through which the current flows, thereby changing the resistance and, consequently, the voltage and current in the circuit.

How does changing the resistance affect the voltage in a circuit?

Changing the resistance in a circuit affects the voltage drop across the resistor according to Ohm's Law (V = IR). Increasing the resistance will increase the voltage drop across the resistor for a given current, while decreasing the resistance will reduce the voltage drop.

Can a variable resistor be used to control the brightness of a light bulb?

Yes, a variable resistor can be used to control the brightness of a light bulb. By adjusting the resistance, you can control the amount of current flowing through the bulb, which in turn controls its brightness. Increasing the resistance will dim the bulb, while decreasing the resistance will make it brighter.

What is the difference between a potentiometer and a rheostat?

A potentiometer is a three-terminal variable resistor used to adjust voltage in a circuit, typically used as a voltage divider. A rheostat is a two-terminal variable resistor used to control current. Both can be used to vary resistance, but their applications differ based on the number of terminals and the way they are connected in the circuit.

How can I calculate the voltage variation when using a variable resistor in a circuit?

To calculate the voltage variation when using a variable resistor, you can use Ohm's Law and the voltage divider rule. Ohm's Law states that V = IR, where V is voltage, I is current, and R is resistance. The voltage divider rule helps determine the voltage drop across each resistor in a series circuit. By adjusting the variable resistor, you change the total resistance, which in turn changes the voltage drop across each component in the circuit.

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