Physics 0625 · IGCSE · Electrical quantities

Electrical quantities — practice question

A student is investigating the resistances of identical wires joined in parallel. She uses the circuit shown in Fig. 2.1.
(a)[1]

On Fig. 2.1, draw a voltmeter so that it measures the potential difference (p.d.) across terminals X and Y.

(b(i))[1]

On Fig. 2.2, draw an arrow (↔) to show exactly between which two points she should measure $l=80.0$ cm for wire A.

(b(ii))[2]

Read the values of V and I shown on the meters in Fig. 2.3 and Fig. 2.4, and enter them in the first line of Table 2.1.

(c)[2]

Calculate, and enter in Table 2.1, the resistance R of each wire combination. Use the equation: $R=\frac{V}{I}$.

(d(i))[1]

Write down a resistance $R_A$. $R_A$ is the value of R from Circuit A. Calculate a resistance $R_B$. Use the value of R from Circuit B and the equation $R_B=R\times2$. Calculate a resistance $R_C$. Use the value of R from Circuit C and the equation $R_C=R\times3$.

(d(ii))[2]

A student suggests that the values of $R_A$, $R_B$ and $R_C$ ought to be equal. State whether your results support this suggestion. Use values from your results to justify your answer.

(e)[1]

Briefly explain why resistor $R_P$, shown in Fig. 2.1, must stay in the circuit throughout the experiment.

(f)[1]

One possible difficulty in this type of experiment is that the resistance wires heat up. Suggest what should be done to reduce this.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 11-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: voltmeter symbol correctly connected in parallel

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