RP: investigate resistor networks

• What are the two types of electrical current mentioned?

  Direct and alternating current
• What is the purpose of a resistor in an electrical circuit?

  A resistor restricts the flow of electrical charge
• What is the difference between fixed-value and variable resistors?

  Fixed-value resistors do not change their resistance, while variable resistors can vary their resistance
• What does potential difference measure in a circuit?

  It measures the energy given to the charge carriers in a circuit
• What are the units of potential difference?

  Volts (V)
• How is resistance calculated in a circuit?

  Resistance is calculated using the formula \( R = \frac{V}{I} \)
• If the potential difference is 4.00 V and the current is 0.40 A, what is the resistance?

  The resistance is \( R = \frac{4.00 \text{ V}}{0.40 \text{ A}} = 10 \, \Omega \)
• What is the aim of the experiment involving resistor networks?

  • To compare the total resistance in series and parallel arrangements
• What happens to the total resistance in a series circuit?

  The total resistance is equal to the sum of the individual resistances
• What happens to the total resistance in a parallel circuit?

  The total resistance is less than either of the individual resistances
• Why does placing resistors in series cause the resistance to double?

  Because there is only one path for the electrons to follow
• What is the consequence of heating wires in a circuit?

  It can cause minor burns
• What control measure should be taken to prevent burns when setting up a circuit?

  Set up the circuit before closing the switch
• What are the results expected from the experiment with resistors?

  • Resistor R1: Potential difference (V) = 4.00, Current (A) = 0.40, Resistance (Ω) = 10
  • Resistor R2: Potential difference (V) = 4.00, Current (A) = 0.40, Resistance (Ω) = 10
  • In series: Potential difference (V) = 4.00, Current (A) = 0.20, Resistance (Ω) = 20
  • In parallel: Potential difference (V) = 4.00, Current (A) = 0.80, Resistance (Ω) = 5
• How do the results of resistors in series compare to those in parallel?

  Resistors in series have higher total resistance than those in parallel
• What is the significance of the voltmeter and ammeter readings in the experiment?

  They are used to measure potential difference and current to calculate resistance
• What is the formula used to determine the total resistance of resistors in series?

  The total resistance is calculated using \( R = V/I \)
• What is the formula used to determine the total resistance of resistors in parallel?

  The total resistance in parallel is calculated using the reciprocal formula \( \frac{1}{R_{total}} = \frac{1}{R_1} + \frac{1}{R_2} \)
• What are the hazards associated with the experiment involving resistors?

  • Heating of wires can cause minor burns
  • Control measures include setting up the circuit before closing the switch