Topic 2: Electricity Flashcards
what is the voltage in a series circuit?
shared amongst components
V(total) = V(1) + V(2) + V(3)
what is the current in a series circuit?
the current is constant in all parts
I(1) = I(2) = I(3)
what is the resistance in a series circuit?
the resistance is the sum of the individual resistances of components
R(total) = R(1) + R(2) + R(3)
what is the voltage in parallel circuits?
all components get the full voltage
V(total) = V(1) + V(2) + V(3)
what is the current in a parallel circuit?
the current is split between branches based on resistance
I(total) = I(1) + I(2) + I(3)
what is the resistance in parallel circuits?
reciprocal of total resistance is the sum of the reciprocals of the individual resistances
how to investigate the current in resistor at constant temperature varied with the potential difference across the resistor
- measure the current using an ammeter
- measure the potential difference using a voltmeter
- vary the resistance of the variable resistor
- record a range of values of current and potential difference
- ensure the current is low to avoid temperature increase
- reverse connect of R to power supply
- repeat measurements of I and V in negative direction
- plot a graph of current against potential difference