The electrical principle that states "the sum of the voltage drops in a closed circuit equals the voltage applied to that circuit" is known as what law?

Prepare for the Basic Automotive Electrical Diagnostics Test with multiple choice questions, detailed explanations, and comprehensive insights. Enhance your skills and confidence for diagnostic excellence!

The principle stating that "the sum of the voltage drops in a closed circuit equals the voltage applied to that circuit" is a formulation of Kirchhoff's Voltage Law (KVL), which is a fundamental principle in electrical engineering. KVL is based on the conservation of energy, meaning that the total energy supplied to a circuit must equal the total energy used by the circuit components.

When applying KVL, it is important to understand that in any loop in a circuit, the amount of voltage provided by power sources must balance out the voltage drops across components like resistors, capacitors, and inductors. This principle is crucial for analyzing complex circuits to ensure they function correctly and safely.

In contrast, the other options refer to different principles. Ohm's law relates current, voltage, and resistance in a linear relationship. Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction deals with how a change in magnetic field can induce electric current. Newton's law pertains to motion rather than electrical circuitry. Thus, Kirchhoff's law is specifically relevant to the situation described in the question.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy