RPA04: I-V characteristics

Question 1

Aim

Answer 1

Investigate the I-V characteristics of a variety of circuit elements

Question 2

Step one

Answer 2

Construct a series circuit with a variable resistor and voltmeter in parallel

Question 3

Step two

Answer 3

Set variable resistor to lowest potential difference setting

Question 4

Step three

Answer 4

Record current and voltage over resistor 

Question 5

Step four

Answer 5

Increase the voltage from the power supply by 2 V and repeat readings

Question 6

Step five

Answer 6

Change the resistors to a filament lamp and repeat steps 2,3,4

Question 7

Step six

Answer 7

Change filament lamp to a diode

Question 8

Step seven

Answer 8

Plot a graph of current against potential difference for each component