Automotive Electronics Practice Test

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Study for the Automotive Electronics Test. Prepare with engaging flashcards and detailed multiple-choice questions. Each question comes with hints and explanations. Ace your exam with ease!

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What specific outcome occurs when a fourth bulb is added in series with three bulbs?

The total voltage drop will increase
The total resistance decreases
The current remains unchanged
The power consumption increases

The correct answer is: The total voltage drop will increase

When a fourth bulb is added in series with three existing bulbs, the total resistance of the circuit will increase. This is because resistances in a series circuit add up. As the total resistance increases, for a given voltage source, the current flowing through the circuit will decrease according to Ohm's Law (V = IR). Consequently, the total voltage drop across the entire series circuit will indeed increase, since the total voltage from the source must be divided among all the bulbs based on their resistance. Each additional bulb adds to the overall resistance, requiring a greater input voltage from the source to maintain or increase the current flow, depending on how the circuit is designed. Thus, the correct outcome is that the total voltage drop will increase.