Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Resistance and resistivity

Resistance and resistivity — practice question

(a)[1]

Define the potential difference (p.d.).

(b)

A power supply with e.m.f. $240\,\text{V}$ and no internal resistance is linked to a heater, as shown in Fig. 6.1. Each wire connecting the heater to the power supply is $75\,\text{m}$ long. The wires have a cross-sectional area $2.5\,\text{mm}^2$ and resistivity $18\,\text{n}\Omega\text{ m}$. The heater has a constant resistance of $38\,\Omega$.

(b(i))[3]

Show that each wire has a resistance of $0.54\,\Omega$.

(b(ii))[3]

Calculate the current flowing in the wires.

(b(iii))[3]

Calculate the power dissipated in the wires.

(c)[2]

The heater leads are replaced with wires of the same length and material, but with a cross-sectional area of $0.50\,\text{mm}^2$. Without doing any more calculations, state and explain the effect on the power loss in the wires.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 12-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: p.d. $=$ work done divided by charge OR energy transferred per unit charge

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