What electrical parameter is controlled by a potentiometer?

A potentiometer is a variable resistor that is used to adjust the resistance within a circuit. When you turn the knob or slide the control of the potentiometer, you are effectively changing the resistance that the device introduces to the circuit. This in turn can affect the voltage level, current flow, or overall power to another device, depending on how it’s configured in the circuit.

The primary function of a potentiometer is to allow for fine-tuning and adjustments in various applications, such as in volume controls for audio devices or brightness controls for lights. By changing the resistance value, you influence how much electrical current flows through the circuit, which is crucial for achieving the desired output or functionality. Other parameters like inductance, capacitance, or field strength are not directly altered by a potentiometer, as they pertain to different components and principles.