Action and use of circuit components — Describe

Describe how a variable potential divider works.

A potential divider consists of two or more resistances (which can include a variable resistor, or components such as an LDR or thermistor) connected in series across a supply, with the output voltage taken across one of them. Adjusting the variable resistance (e.g. moving a slider along a rheostat) changes the ratio of the resistances, varying the output potential difference between zero and the full supply voltage.