Finding Potential Difference in a Series Circuit

Finding Potential Difference in a Series Circuit

In the circuit above, if the current in the circuit is I, then the potential difference across each of the resistor is
$$\begin{array}{l}{V}_1=I{R}_1\\ V_2=I{R}_2\end{array}$$

Example

Find the potential difference across each of the resistors in the diagram above.

Answer:
The potential difference across the 2 resistors, V = 12V
The equivalent resistance of the 2 resistors, R = 2 + 4 = 6Ω
Current pass through the 2 resistor,
$$I=\frac{V}{R}=\frac{12}{6}=2A$$
For resistor R₁,
V = IR
V = (2)(2) = 4V

For resistor R₂
V = IR
V = (2)(4) = 8V