Physics 5054 · O Level · Resistance

Resistance — practice question

A student assembles a circuit to find the resistance of a piece of wire. The circuit includes a battery with unknown e.m.f., a length of wire used as resistor X, an ammeter, a voltmeter and a variable resistor R.
(a(i))[1]

On Fig. 6.1, add one voltmeter and one ammeter in positions that will allow the resistance of X to be determined.

(a(ii))[2]

Explain how X and R operate as a variable potential divider.

(b(i))[1]

State the relationship between the resistance of the wire and the length of the wire.

(b(ii))[3]

Calculate the current in a $90\,\text{cm}$ length of the wire when the potential difference (p.d.) across it is $9.0\,\text{V}$. Show your working.

(b(iii))[2]

The p.d. across the wire used for resistor X is held constant for every resistance measurement. Describe the relationship between the current in the wire and the wire length.

(c)[1]

State how the resistance of a wire depends on the wire’s cross-sectional area.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 10-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Voltmeter connected across X and ammeter connected in series anywhere in the circuit

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