A 10.0-V potential is applied across two resistors, R₁ and R₂, connected in series. If the potential difference across R₁ is 4.0 V, the value of R₂ is A) 1/2 R₁. B) 2/3 R₁. C) 1.5 R₁. D) 2 R₁.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Since the total voltage is 10.0 V and the voltage across $R_{S1}$ is 4.0 V, the voltage across $R_{S2}$ must be $10.0 V - 4.0 V = 6.0 V$. In a series circuit, the voltage drop across a resistor is proportional to its resistance. Therefore, if $R_{S2}$ has a 6.0 V drop compared to $R_{S1}$'s 4.0 V drop, $R_{S2}$ must be $6.0 V / 4.0 V = 1.5$ times $R_{S1}$, making it 1.5 times the value of $R_{S1}$.

A 100-V Potential Is Applied Across Two Resistors, R1 and R2

A 100-V Potential Is Applied Across Two Resistors, R₁ and R₂