Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Potential dividers

Potential dividers — practice question

A potential divider circuit is made up of a cell with negligible internal resistance connected in series with two variable resistors of resistances $R_1$ and $R_2$. The potential difference (p.d.) across the cell is $V_0$. The output p.d. is $V$. Which statement is correct?

  • AWhen $R_1$ increases, it takes a greater proportion of $V_0$, so $V$ decreases.
  • BWhen $R_1$ increases, the current through $R_1$ and $R_2$ decreases, so $V$ increases.
  • CWhen $R_2$ decreases, it takes a smaller proportion of $V_0$, so $V$ increases.
  • DWhen $R_2$ increases, the current through $R_1$ and $R_2$ decreases, so $V$ decreases.

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