Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Characteristics of alternating currents

Characteristics of alternating currents — practice question

(a)[2]

Using heating effect as the reference, explain what is meant by the root-mean-square (r.m.s.) value of an alternating current.

(b)

Fig. 10.1 and Fig. 10.2 show how the two currents $I_1$ and $I_2$ vary with time $t$.

(b(i))[1]

From Fig. 10.1, find the peak value and the r.m.s. value of current $I_1$.

(b(ii))[1]

From Fig. 10.2, determine the peak value and the r.m.s. value of current $I_2$.

(c)

The dependence of the house supply voltage $V$ on time $t$ is described by $V = 240\sin kt$, where $V$ is measured in volts, $t$ is measured in seconds and $k$ is a constant with unit $\text{rad s}^{-1}$.

(c(i))[2]

The supply voltage has frequency $50\,\text{Hz}$. Determine $k$ to two significant figures.

(c(ii))[2]

The supply voltage is connected to a heater. The heater has mean power $3.2\,\text{kW}$. Calculate the resistance of the heater.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 8-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Steady (direct) current that produces the same heating effect

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