Physics 5054 · O Level · Electromotive force and potential difference

Electromotive force and potential difference — practice question

A student investigates how the potential difference $V$ across the terminals of a power supply changes when the current $I$ in a circuit changes. Fig. 3.1 shows the circuit.
(a)[1]

Write down the voltmeter reading $V_0$ shown in Fig. 3.2.

(b)[1]

Write down the ammeter reading $I$ shown in Fig. 3.3.

(c)[1]

Fill in the heading for each column in Table 3.1, and also add the value of $I$ from (b).

(d)[3]

Plot $V$ against $I$ with $V$ on the $y$-axis and $I$ on the $x$-axis, starting both axes at $(0,0)$, then draw the best-fit straight line.

(e(i))[2]

Find the gradient $m$ of your line, noting that $m$ is numerically equal to the resistance $r$ of the power supply.

(e(ii))[1]

Continue your best-fit line until it reaches the $y$-axis and record the value of the electromotive force $V_0$.

(f)[2]

Compare $V_0$ from (a) with the value obtained from the graph in (e)(ii). State whether the two values match to within $10\%$ and support your answer with a calculation.

(g)[1]

Give one practical reason why values of $d$ below $20.0\,\text{cm}$ should not be used.

(h)[2]

Complete the circuit diagram to show the connection of a variable resistor.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 14-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: V₀ reads 2.9 V.

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