What causes voltage drop in a circuit?

The voltage drop in a circuit primarily occurs due to resistance in wires or components. When electrical current flows through a circuit, it encounters resistance, which can be due to the materials of the wires or the components themselves. According to Ohm's Law, voltage drop (V) across a resistor is proportional to the current (I) flowing through it and the resistance (R) of the wire or component, expressed as V = I × R. This relationship illustrates that as current passes through a resistive element, some energy is lost in the form of heat, effectively reducing the voltage available at the load end of the circuit.

In practical terms, factors like poor connections, long wire lengths, or inadequate wire gauge can exacerbate this resistance-induced voltage drop, leading to inefficiency in electrical systems. Understanding this concept is crucial for designing circuits that minimize voltage drop to ensure that devices receive the appropriate voltage for optimal performance.