Cathodic Protection Tester Practice Exam

In a basic electrical circuit, what does a higher resistance indicate?

1. Higher voltage

2. Lower current

3. Stable voltage

4. Increased power

The correct answer is: Lower current

In a basic electrical circuit, higher resistance typically indicates lower current. This relationship is described by Ohm's Law, which states that voltage (V) is equal to current (I) multiplied by resistance (R), or V = I × R. When the voltage remains constant, an increase in resistance leads to a decrease in current since the circuit will allow less flow of electricity. This principle underscores the fundamental concept that in scenarios of constant voltage supply, increasing the resistance will restrict the flow of electrons, thereby reducing the current. For example, if you double the resistance, the current will be halved. This is a key factor in designing circuits, as it helps engineers determine how different components will interact under varying load conditions. The other possible answers imply different relationships. Higher voltage typically causes an increase in current if resistance remains constant, and voltage stability does not inherently relate to resistance changes. Increased power depends on both voltage and current, so it does not directly correspond to resistance alone. Thus, understanding the role of resistance leads us to conclude that higher resistance in a circuit directly corresponds to lower current.