CAIE IGCSE Physics 4.3.3.2 Action of a variable potential divider
Practise tracing how variable potential dividers control output p.d., lamp brightness and sensor responses in real circuits.
- Syllabus
- 2026–2028
- Course
- Physics 0625
Practise tracing how variable potential dividers control output p.d., lamp brightness and sensor responses in real circuits.
Fig. 6.1 shows a circuit which includes an LDR (light-dependent resistor).

Fig. 6.1
The LDR is in a brightly lit room. The voltmeter reads 1.8 V .
The light level in the room changes from bright to dark.
State and explain the effect on the voltmeter reading.
statement
explanation
increases
B1
resistance of LDR increases
B1
ratio of potential differences (across each component) equals ratio of the two resistances ORR1/R2=V1/V2
OR
LDR has greater share of the total / supply voltage
OR
potential difference of the source is divided between the resistor ( R ) and LDR
B1