A **resistor** is an electronic component that resists or limits the flow of electric current in a circuit. It is used to control the amount of current passing through different parts of the circuit.
The main function of a resistor is to **reduce current** or adjust voltage levels in electronic devices. It does this by converting some of the electrical energy into heat.
### Key points about resistors:
1. **Resistance (measured in ohms)**: Resistors are rated by their **resistance**, which tells you how much they resist the flow of current. The higher the resistance, the less current will flow.
2. **Symbol**: In circuit diagrams, resistors are usually represented by a zig-zag line.
3. **Types**: There are different types of resistors, like fixed, variable (potentiometers), and special-purpose resistors.
4. **Ohm's Law**: The resistance of a resistor follows **Ohm's Law**, which states that the current (I) through a resistor is equal to the voltage (V) across it divided by its resistance (R). So, **I = V / R**.
### Example:
If you connect a resistor to a battery, the resistor will reduce the current flowing through the circuit. For example, a **100 ohm resistor** will limit the current more than a **10 ohm resistor**.
Let me know if you want to dive deeper into how resistors are used in circuits!