Series Circuit Analysis
Description
This MicroSim demonstrates a series circuit with up to four resistors connected end-to-end. Adjust each resistor value with a slider and watch the single loop current update instantly. Voltage drops across each element are shown as labeled arrows, and the sum is verified to equal the source voltage — illustrating Kirchhoff's Voltage Law in action.
Key Concepts
- In a series circuit, the same current flows through every element: \(I = \frac{V_s}{R_1 + R_2 + \cdots + R_n}\).
- Total resistance is the arithmetic sum: \(R_{total} = R_1 + R_2 + \cdots + R_n\).
- Each resistor's voltage drop is proportional to its resistance: \(V_k = I \cdot R_k\).
- KVL confirms: \(\sum V_{drops} = V_{source}\).
- Series circuits are used as voltage dividers and in current-limiting applications.