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An LDR, or photoresistor, is a variable resistor that changes its resistance based on light exposure, allowing more current to flow in bright light and less in darkness. It is commonly used in circuits for applications like automatic streetlights and burglar alarms, where it detects light levels to control other devices. The resistance of an LDR can range from very high in the dark to low in bright light, affecting voltage and current in the circuit.

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Document 2

An LDR, or photoresistor, is a variable resistor that changes its resistance based on light exposure, allowing more current to flow in bright light and less in darkness. It is commonly used in circuits for applications like automatic streetlights and burglar alarms, where it detects light levels to control other devices. The resistance of an LDR can range from very high in the dark to low in bright light, affecting voltage and current in the circuit.

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What is an LDR?

An LDR is a variable resistor that changes its resistance based on the amount
of light shining on it. It is also called a photoresistor.
 In bright light, the resistance of the LDR decreases, meaning it allows
more current to flow through the circuit.
 In darkness or low light, the resistance of the LDR increases, meaning
it allows less current to flow.
Characteristics of an LDR:
 High resistance in the dark: When the LDR is in darkness or dim light,
its resistance is very high, sometimes in the range of megaohms (MΩ).
 Low resistance in bright light: When bright light hits the LDR, its
resistance drops significantly, allowing more current to pass through it.
How does an LDR work in a circuit?
In a circuit, the LDR can be used as part of a potential divider or other control
system. As the light intensity changes, the resistance of the LDR changes, which
in turn affects the voltage across it or the current flowing through the circuit.
Example:
Imagine a circuit where an LDR is used to control a streetlight. The LDR is
connected to a potential divider that controls the light. During the day, when
there’s lots of light, the resistance of the LDR decreases, and the current flows
through another part of the circuit, keeping the streetlight off. At night, when it's
dark, the resistance increases, and the circuit turns the streetlight on.
Practical Uses in IGCSE Context:
1. Automatic streetlights: LDRs are used to detect the level of light in the
environment. If the light falls below a certain threshold, the streetlight
turns on automatically.
2. Burglar alarms: LDRs can be used to detect changes in light, such as a
shadow passing over a sensor, which might indicate someone moving in a
restricted area.
3. Brightness detection: LDRs can measure the brightness of light and be
used in various sensors or applications that respond to different levels of
light.

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