Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Potential dividers

Potential dividers — practice question

A battery with electromotive force $12\,\text{V}$ and negligible internal resistance is linked to two resistors and a light-dependent resistor (LDR), as shown in Fig. 4.1. An ammeter is joined in series with the battery. The LDR and switch S are connected across points X and Y.
(a)[3]

With the switch S open, Calculate the potential difference (p.d.) across XY.

(b)[3]

With the switch S closed, and the LDR resistance equal to $4.0\,\text{k}\Omega$, Calculate the current in the ammeter.

(c(i))[2]

The switch $S$ remains closed. The intensity of the light on the LDR is increased. State and explain the change in the ammeter reading.

(c(ii))[2]

The switch $S$ remains closed. The intensity of the light on the LDR is increased. State and explain the change in the p.d. across $XY$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 10-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: The total resistance is $20\,\text{k}\Omega$, so the current is $12/20 = 20\,\text{mA}$.

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