What does an increase in resistance do to the current in a circuit, assuming voltage is held constant?

An increase in resistance in a circuit, while keeping the voltage constant, leads to a decrease in current. This relationship is described by Ohm's Law, which states that current (I) is equal to voltage (V) divided by resistance (R), or I = V/R.

When the voltage is held constant and the resistance is increased, the formula indicates that the current must decrease because a larger denominator (resistance) in the equation results in a smaller overall value for current.

This principle is fundamental in understanding how electrical circuits operate, particularly when it comes to ensuring that components are rated for the conditions they will encounter. Recognizing the inverse relationship between resistance and current under constant voltage is crucial for electricians and those in the electrical field, as it affects everything from circuit design to troubleshooting.