Kirchhoff's Voltage Law Calculator Formula
Understand the math behind the kirchhoff's voltage law calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.
Formulas Used
Sum of Voltage Drops
total_drops = sum_dropsUnaccounted Voltage
remainder = v_source - sum_dropsVariables
| Variable | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|
v_source | Source Voltage(V) | 12 |
v_drop1 | Voltage Drop 1(V) | 4 |
v_drop2 | Voltage Drop 2(V) | 5 |
v_drop3 | Voltage Drop 3 (0 to skip)(V) | 3 |
sum_drops | Derived value= v_drop1 + v_drop2 + v_drop3 | calculated |
How It Works
Kirchhoff's Voltage Law (KVL)
The sum of all voltages around any closed loop equals zero.
Principle
V_source = V_drop1 + V_drop2 + V_drop3 + ...
If drops do not sum to the source, there is an unaccounted component.
Worked Example
12 V source with drops of 4 V, 5 V, and 3 V.
v_source = 12v_drop1 = 4v_drop2 = 5v_drop3 = 3
- 01Sum = 4 + 5 + 3 = 12 V
- 02Unaccounted = 12 - 12 = 0 V
- 03KVL is satisfied.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is KVL?
The algebraic sum of all voltages around any closed loop is zero.
What does a nonzero remainder mean?
An unaccounted voltage drop or measurement error exists in the loop.
Does KVL apply to AC circuits?
Yes, using phasor voltages.
Ready to run the numbers?
Open Kirchhoff's Voltage Law Calculator