Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
A resistor is an electronic component that restricts or limits the flow of electric current in a circuit. It is used to control the amount of current flowing through other components.
Related terms
Ohm's Law: Ohm's Law states that there is a direct relationship between voltage (V), current (I), and resistance (R) in an electrical circuit - V = I * R.
Capacitor: Unlike resistors that restrict current flow, capacitors store and release electrical energy over time.
Variable Resistor: Also known as rheostat or potentiometer, it is a resistor whose resistance value can be adjusted manually.