Potential Difference Across Resistors in Series

In a series circuit the same current flows through each resistor, so the voltage drop across each resistor (V = IR) adds up to the total voltage supplied by the battery. This simulation shows an ideal 6 V battery, three resistors in series, an ammeter, and a voltmeter that can be placed across any component. The physics follows V = V1 + V2 + V3, demonstrating Kirchhoff’s voltage law for series combinations.

Students can tap a resistor or the battery terminals to place the voltmeter and read the potential difference across the whole circuit and each individual resistor. By observing the ammeter they see that the current is the same through all elements, and the voltmeter readings change accordingly.

The activity reinforces the relationship between voltage, current and resistance (Ohm’s law) and helps learners understand voltage division in series circuits, a key concept in current electricity for Grade 9‑10 studies.