Resistors work by creating a voltage drop across themselves. This voltage drop is created by the movement of electrons through the resistor. The faster the electrons move, the higher the voltage drop. The amount of current flowing through the resistor, and the voltage drop across the resistor, are proportional to one another.
There are many different types of resistors, including carbon-composition resistors, metal-film resistors, and wire-wound resistors. Each type of resistor has its own set of characteristics that make it well-suited for specific applications.
The most common resistor values are 1/4 watt, 1/2 watt, and 1 watt. These values are based on the power dissipation of the resistor.
A carbon resistor is made of carbon, while a metal resistor is made of metal. Carbon resistors are typically used for low-power applications, while metal resistors are used for high-power applications.
A carbon resistor is made of carbon, while a metal-film resistor is made of a metal film. Carbon resistors are typically used for low-power applications, while metal-film resistors are used for high-power applications.
A carbon resistor is made of carbon, while a wire-wound resistor is made of a wire wound around a core. Carbon resistors are typically used for low-power applications, while wire-wound resistors are used for high-power applications.
The size of the resistor is determined by the power dissipation of the resistor. The power dissipation is a function of the current flowing through the resistor and the voltage drop across the resistor.
The type of resistor is determined by the application. Each type of resistor has its own set of characteristics that make it well-suited for specific applications.
Resistors are available from many different sources, including electronics stores, online retailers, and distributors.