Circuits

• What is the primary function of circuits?

  To carry an electrical current from a power source to electrical components
• What is the role of a cell in a circuit?

  A cell acts as a power source that powers the circuit
• How does a lamp function in a circuit?

  A lamp lights up when the electric current supplies energy to it
• What is the purpose of a switch in a circuit?

  To turn the circuit on or off
• What must all components in a circuit be connected by?

  Electrical conductors, usually made of metal
• Why are conducting wires wrapped in insulating plastic?

  To prevent electric shock when touching the wire
• What is a closed loop in a circuit?

  A complete path from one end of the battery to the other
• What happens if there is no closed loop in a circuit?

  The current stops completely
• How does a switch affect the flow of current in a circuit?

  A switch can break the circuit, stopping the current flow
• What do circuit diagrams represent?

  Circuit components and how they are connected
• What are the symbols used to represent different components in a circuit diagram?

  • Cell: Two lines with a plus symbol
  • Lamp: Circle with a cross
  • Switch: Two circles with a line
• What does the symbol for a cell indicate in a circuit diagram?

  It shows the position of the cell and its orientation
• What is the difference between a cell and a battery in circuits?

  A battery consists of two or more cells connected in series
• How should cells be connected when forming a battery?

  Positive terminal to negative terminal
• What is the circuit symbol for a battery?

  The symbol for a cell repeated twice
• What is the function of a switch in a circuit?

  To manually break or complete a circuit
• How is an open switch represented in a circuit diagram?

  By drawing the line only joined to one circle
• How is a closed switch represented in a circuit diagram?

  By drawing the line connected to both circles
• What causes a lamp to illuminate in a circuit?

  The current heats up the filament, causing it to emit light
• What is the circuit symbol for a lamp?

  A circle with a cross inside
• What are the two ways components can be arranged in a circuit?

  • Series: Components are part of the same branch
  • Parallel: Components are on separate branches
• What does it mean for components to be connected in series?

  Any path around the circuit goes through both or neither of the components
• What does it mean for components to be connected in parallel?

  They are on separate branches, allowing current to flow through one or the other
• What is the purpose of the Launchpad learning platform mentioned in the material?

  To help students prepare for their exams with interactive quizzes and videos
• What does the Launchpad learning platform aim to do for students?

  To keep students motivated and support them in their studies
• What type of content does the Launchpad learning platform cover?

  It covers the whole specification for GCSE Physics
• How does the Launchpad learning platform enhance the revision experience?

  By making revision fun with interactive quizzes and easy-to-follow videos
• What is the benefit of having an AI tutor on the Launchpad learning platform?

  To support students every step of the way