How Light Dependant Resistor(LDR) Works? Animation

(Image: Light Dependant Resistor (LDR))

LDRs or Light Dependent Resistors are very useful especially in light/dark sensor circuits. Normally the resistance of an LDR is very high, sometimes as high as 1000 000 ohms, but when they are illuminated with light resistance drops dramatically.

(Image: Working of an LDR in a Circuit)

This is an example of a light sensor circuit :

When the light level is low the resistance of the LDR is high. This prevents current from flowing to the base of the transistors. Consequently the LED does not light.

However, when light shines onto the LDR its resistance falls and current flows into the base of the first transistor and then the second transistor. The LED lights.

The preset resistor can be turned up or down to increase or decrease resistance, in this way it can make the circuit more or less sensitive.

(Courtesy: http://www.technologystudent.com)