Ohm's Law
Ohm's Law states that the current through a conductor between two points is directly proportional to the voltage across the two points.
The mathematical equation is V = I × R, where:
- V = Voltage in volts (V)
- I = Current in amperes (A)
- R = Resistance in ohms (Ω)
From this relationship, we can derive two other forms:
- I = V ÷ R (Current = Voltage ÷ Resistance)
- R = V ÷ I (Resistance = Voltage ÷ Current)
Circuit Diagram
A circuit diagram visualizes how voltage, current, and resistance interact in an electrical circuit.
A simple electrical circuit showing the relationship between voltage (V), current (I), and resistance (R).
Power Formulas
Power from Voltage and Current
P = V × I
Power (watts) = Voltage (volts) × Current (amperes)
Power from Current and Resistance
P = I² × R
Power (watts) = Current² (amperes) × Resistance (ohms)
Power from Voltage and Resistance
P = V² ÷ R
Power (watts) = Voltage² (volts) ÷ Resistance (ohms)
Ohm's Law Formula Wheel
V
I × R
I
V ÷ R
P
V × I
R
V ÷ I
Understanding the Formula Wheel
The Ohm's Law wheel is a visual aid that helps you remember how to calculate any electrical value when you know two others.
Voltage (V) = Current (I) × Resistance (R)
Current (I) = Voltage (V) ÷ Resistance (R)
Resistance (R) = Voltage (V) ÷ Current (I)
Power (P) = Voltage (V) × Current (I)
Practical Applications
Electronics Design
Used in designing circuits, determining component specifications, and ensuring electronic devices operate within safe parameters.
Battery Management
Calculating power consumption, battery life, and charging requirements for portable electronic devices.
Electrical Troubleshooting
Diagnosing issues in electrical systems by measuring and comparing actual values against expected values.