Meet the Resistor Family

Run the Meet the Resistor Family MicroSim Fullscreen

About This MicroSim

This interactive infographic compares fixed resistors, potentiometers, trim pots, photoresistors, and thermistors by what changes their resistance and where each is useful.

How to Use

1. In Explore mode, click a column—or focus it with the keyboard and press Enter—to reveal a description and selection guidance.
2. Select Quiz Me and answer each use-case question by choosing the matching image.
3. Compare at least two columns and explain which visible and electrical differences matter most.

Compared Items

1. Fixed resistor
2. Potentiometer
3. Trim pot
4. Photoresistor (LDR)
5. Thermistor (NTC)

Lesson Plan

Grade Level

Grades 6–10; beginning electronics

Duration

10–15 minutes

Learning Objective

Students will distinguish fixed, human-adjusted, and environment-sensitive resistance and match each type to an application.

Activities

1. Explore: Inspect each column and identify a visible clue.
2. Compare: Contrast two choices using the detail panel.
3. Apply: Complete the quiz and justify each selection aloud or in writing.

Assessment

Select the best component for an LED limiter, volume knob, calibration adjustment, night detector, and temperature sensor.

References

1. Chapter 9, “Resistors and Ohm’s Law,” in this textbook.