jännitteenjakopiirin

A jännitteenjakopiiri, or voltage divider in English, is a simple passive linear circuit that produces an output voltage (Vout) that is a fraction of its input voltage (Vin). It is typically constructed using two or more impedances, most commonly resistors, connected in series. The output voltage is taken across one of these impedances.

The fundamental principle of a voltage divider relies on Ohm's Law and Kirchhoff's Voltage Law. When a voltage source is applied across a series combination of resistors, the total voltage is divided proportionally to the resistance of each component. If two resistors, R1 and R2, are connected in series across a voltage source Vin, and the output voltage Vout is taken across R2, the formula for Vout is given by Vout = Vin * (R2 / (R1 + R2)).

Voltage dividers are widely used in electronics for various purposes. They can be used to step down a voltage to a level required by a specific component, such as a sensor or an integrated circuit. They also serve as a convenient way to create adjustable voltage references or to provide a variable voltage output, as is the case with potentiometers, which are essentially variable voltage dividers. Additionally, voltage dividers can be employed in sensor applications where the resistance of a component changes in response to an external stimulus, such as light (photoresistors) or temperature (thermistors), thereby altering the output voltage. While simple and cost-effective, it's important to note that voltage dividers have limitations, such as power dissipation in the resistors and reduced output impedance, which can affect their performance when loaded by subsequent circuits.