I-V characteristics

• What does the term 'I-V characteristic' refer to?

  A graph showing how the current (I) changes as the potential difference (V) increases
• What is the I-V characteristic of linear components like an ohmic conductor?

  It is a straight line
• How do non-linear components differ in their I-V characteristics compared to linear components?

  Non-linear components have a curve in their I-V characteristic
• What are the steps to find a component's I-V characteristic in an experiment?

  1. Set up the circuit as shown.
  2. Begin to vary the variable resistor.
• What is the significance of ohmic conduction mentioned on page 41?

  It refers to the behavior of components that follow Ohm's law
• Why is it important to plot an I-V characteristic for circuit components?

  To understand how current changes with potential difference
• What types of components are typically considered non-linear?

  Filament lamps and diodes