The loop and junction laws typically form the foundations of the study of electric circuits in introductory physics. However, these rules can often be difficult for students to reason about conceptually, especially in circuits with multiple loops. We have developed a graphical representation of the loop law that can be used to bolster students’ conceptual understanding of voltage drops and gains in an electric circuit. We discuss the representation itself, possible variants of the representation, and thoughts from using the representation in a large introductory physics course.

Voltage Diagrams: A New Graphical Representation for the Loop Law

PAR-E.03 Introductory Physics Courses I

technical paper

The 2020 AAPT Virtual Summer Meeting brought together physics educators from around the globe to learn about the latest in physics theory, research methodology and education from leaders in their field. The program featured plenary speakers, sessions, workshops and many special activities.

For more information please visit the 2020 AAPT Virtual Summer Meeting page at: https://www.aapt.org/Conferences/SM2020/index.cfm.


AAPT SM 20

The 2020 AAPT Virtual Summer Meeting brought together physics educators from around the globe to learn about the latest in physics theory, research methodology and education from leaders in their field. 

Paul Emigh

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Voltage Diagrams: A New Graphical Representation for the Loop Law

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