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Potential Divider Lab

Run divider what-if checks with fixed resistors, LDR/NTC placement, optional output loading, and guided prompts on Vₒᵤₜ trends and current.

  • Supports 2 curriculum editions
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Interactive stageLive model

Loading the interactive model…The interactive model did not load. Try again reloads this page; the explanation and worked content here are still available.

Change one variable at a time and watch the model respond.

Scenario setup

Primary controls
9.0 V
More controls
Component values
10.0 kOhm
10.0 kOhm
50%

Circuit checkpoint

What to notice:

Prediction target:

      Practice run

      Choose a mode and checkpoint count when you want scoring.

      Run mode
      Try Circuits Quiz

      Choose your checkpoint count for guided or challenge mode.

      Study lensPredict output voltage using divider ratio logic.10 min activity

      Try this

      Focus on trend direction first, then verify magnitudes with the displayed values.

      Learn to

      • Predict output voltage using divider ratio logic.
      • Compare LDR and thermistor placement effects on output trend.
      • Model a finite output load using a parallel equivalent resistance.

      Exam transfer

      • Potential divider
      • Sensor circuits
      • Loaded divider

      Governing idea

      For an unloaded divider, Vₒᵤₜ = Vₛ × R₂/(R₁ + R₂). With a load Rₗ across R₂, first use the output equivalent R₂ ∥ Rₗ.

      Model boundary

      The model uses an ideal fixed supply, an ideal output voltmeter, resistive components, and negligible wire resistance. Rₗ represents the finite next circuit stage; sensor curves are simplified teaching relationships.

      Avoid this trap

      A sensor increasing its resistance does not always increase Vₒᵤₜ, and a finite output load is not in series with R₂; placement and parallel loading both change the divider ratio.

      How to explore

      Run resistor, sensor, and loading what-if tests to reason about Vₒᵤₜ and circuit response.

      Predict the outcome, change one variable at a time, then interpret the result. Completion records participation only and does not award mastery.

      About this activity

      Run divider what-if checks with fixed resistors, LDR/NTC placement, optional output loading, and guided prompts on Vₒᵤₜ trends and current. A text explanation and no-JavaScript route remain available.

      How this activity affects progress
      Course and syllabus information
      Course
      GCE A-Level H2 Physics, SEC G3 Physics
      Edition
      GCE A-Level H2 Physics 2027, SEC G3 Physics 2027