Enter the circuit current (a) and the circuit resistance (ohms) into the calculator to determine the Potential Voltage. 

Potential Voltage Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the Potential Voltage. 

Vp = IC * RC
  • Where Vp is the Potential Voltage (volts)
  • IC is the circuit current (a) 
  • RC is the circuit resistance (ohms) 

To calculate the potential voltage, multiply the circuit current by the circuit resistance.

How to Calculate Potential Voltage?

The following two example problems outline how to calculate the Potential Voltage.

Example Problem #1:

  1. First, determine the circuit current (a). In this example, the circuit current (a) is measured to be 50.
  2. Next, determine the circuit resistance (ohms). For this problem, the circuit resistance (ohms) is calculated to be 20.
  3. Finally, calculate the Potential Voltage using the formula above: 

Vp = IC * RC

Inserting the values from above and solving the equation with the imputed values gives: 

Vp = 50 * 20 = 100 (volts)

FAQ

What is the significance of calculating potential voltage in electrical circuits?

Calculating potential voltage is crucial for designing and troubleshooting electrical circuits. It helps in determining the voltage drop across components, ensuring that devices operate within their voltage ratings, and optimizing the efficiency of the circuit.

Can potential voltage be negative?

Yes, potential voltage can be negative depending on the direction of current flow and the reference point chosen. A negative voltage indicates that the direction of the potential drop is opposite to the assumed direction.

How does resistance affect the potential voltage in a circuit?

Resistance directly affects the potential voltage in a circuit. According to Ohm’s law, the potential voltage across a resistor is directly proportional to the resistance. Higher resistance leads to a higher voltage drop for a given current, and vice versa.