Chapter 23, Problem 83A

To determine

The effect on voltage output $V_2$ if the resistance of the variable resistor is increased.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

In a series circuit, the voltage drop depends on the value of resistance because the current flow throughout the circuit is same. From Ohm’s law:

  $V=IR$

Here, I is the current and R is the resistance.

The input voltage is fixed. When the resistance of the variable resistor is increased, then voltage drop across that resistor increases thereby decreasing the voltage output $\left(V_2\right)$ .