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In traversing a closed loop, a student adds all voltage rises and drops without assigning signs. Why is this incorrect?
ABecause current, not voltage, must be summed in a loop
BBecause only resistor voltages are included in a loop equation
CBecause Kirchhoff's Voltage Law requires algebraic addition with sign conventions
DBecause source voltages are always ignored
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: C. Because Kirchhoff's Voltage Law requires algebraic addition with sign conventions
KVL uses the algebraic sum of potential changes, so sign matters. A rise in potential and a drop in potential contribute with opposite signs depending on the chosen direction of traversal and polarity markings. Ignoring signs can give an incorrect loop equation.