What is another name for a rheostat?

A rheostat is a specific type of variable resistor designed to adjust current flow in a circuit without interrupting the flow of electricity. By altering its resistance, a rheostat can effectively control the electric current and, consequently, the brightness of a light or the speed of a motor. This ability to vary resistance makes it an essential component in many electrical and electronic applications.

Fixed resistors, in contrast, have a set resistance value and do not allow for adjustments in circuit conditions. Capacitors and inductors are components that serve entirely different functions; capacitors store electrical energy temporarily, while inductors store energy in a magnetic field when electrical current flows through them. Therefore, the term "variable resistor" accurately describes the function and purpose of a rheostat, confirming its role in managing current flow in variable ways.