Skip to content
    Physics A-Level

    Kirchhoff's laws

    What Kirchhoff's laws means in Physics A-Level, as defined for OCR.

    Definitions of Kirchhoff's laws

    Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.

    Check what you remember

    Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Kirchhoff's laws in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.

    Reference: OCR

    At any junction the sum of currents entering equals the sum leaving, and around any closed loop the algebraic sum of potential differences is zero.
    OCR · Series and parallel circuits (study guide)
    These are used to check current and voltage distributions.
    OCR · Series and parallel circuits (study guide)

    Topics that use Kirchhoff's laws

    Related terms

    Using Kirchhoff's laws in the exam

    Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.

    Practise Physics questions

    Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.

    Start free

    A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge

    All Physics A-Level terms