St.

Andrew’s Junior College H2 Physics

TOPIC 14: Direct Current Circuits

Learning Outcomes: Candidates should be able to:
a. Recall and use appropriate circuit symbols as set out in the ASE publication Signs,
Symbols and Systematics (The ASE Companion to 16-19 Science, 2000).
b. Draw and interpret circuit diagrams containing sources, switches, resistors, ammeters,
voltmeters, and/or any other type of component referred to in the syllabus.
c. Solve problems using the formula for the combined resistance of two or more resistors in
series.
d. Solve problems using the formula for the combined resistance of two or more resistors in
parallel.
e. Solve problems involving series and parallel circuits for one source of e.m.f.
f. Show an understanding of the use of a potential divider circuit as a source of variable p.d.
g. Explain the use of thermistors and light-dependent resistors in potential dividers to
provide a potential difference which is dependent on temperature and illumination
respectively.
h. Recall and solve problems using the principle of the potentiometer as a means of
comparing potential differences.

Four broad areas:

 Circuit symbols and diagrams
 Series and parallel arrangements
 Potential divider
 Balance potentials

Key questions:
 What is a direct current?
 How to use circuit symbols in a diagram to represent a real circuit?
 What are the differences between series and parallel circuit arrangement in terms of
current, potential difference and resistance?
 How can a potential divider be used as a source of variable potential difference?
 How can the principle of potentiometer be used to solve problems?

D.C. stands for direct current. As the term implies, it means current flowing only in one direction
in a closed circuit. The magnitude of the current, however, may vary with time. The following
are some examples of graphs representing the variation of direct current with time.

current current current

time

time time

(a) (b) (c)

In (a) and (b), the magnitudes of the current changes with time. In (a) the current flows in the
opposite direction as that in Fig (b). In Fig (c), the current flows with constant magnitude. We
say, the current is a steady D.C. Your syllabus focuses mainly on the type of current shown in
Fig (c) – steady D.C.

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A simple D.C. circuit typically consist of:

a) source(s) of electrical energy, e.g. e.m.f.

b) resistors
c) capacitors (not tested at A-levels)
d) switches and simple measuring instruments such as voltmeter, ammeter, etc.

14.1 The Electrical Circuit Symbols

Standard circuit symbols are used to simplify circuit diagrams. Each circuit symbol represents
an electrical device. The table below shows some common circuit symbols.

Symbol Meaning Symbol Meaning

cell / battery thermistor

power supply diode

switch
potential divider
A ammeter
earth

V voltmeter aerial/antenna*

galvanometer capacitor*

filament lamp inductor*

resistor
wires crossing with no
variable resistor connection

wires crossing with

light dependent connection
resistor

loudspeaker
microphone

*aerial/antenna, capacitor and inductor are no longer in the A-Level syllabus.

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14.2 Principles Involved in Solving Circuit Problems

Conservation of Charges
Charges cannot be created nor destroyed. Hence, the total charge that enters a junction per
unit time (i.e. current entering) must be equal to the total charge that leaves the same junction
per unit time (i.e. current leaving).

Principle 1 (Kirchoff’s 1st Law): The sum of currents entering any junction in an electric circuit
is always equal to the sum of currents leaving that junction.

i.e., in the circuit shown below, I = I1 + I2

V
I1 I
R1
I
I2
R2

Example 1
The diagrams show connected wires which carry currents I1, I2, I3 and I4. The currents are
related by the equation I1 + I2 = I3 + I4.

To which diagram does this equation apply? [N98/P1/Q16]

A B C D

I1 I3 I4 I3 I4
I2
I1 I2
I4 I1 I1 I2
I2 I3
I4 I3
Ans: C

Worked Example 2
Calculate the currents IA, IB, IC, ID, IE, and IF as shown in the diagram below.
[ IA = 4.7 mA, IB = 8.4 mA, IC = 1.3 mA, IF
ID = 7.1 mA, IE = 4.7 mA, IF =8.4 mA]

IA = 8.4 – 3.7 = 4.7 mA

IB = 8.4 mA
1.3 mA
IC = 1.3 mA
2.4 mA IE
ID IC
ID = 8.4 – 1.3 = 7.1 mA
IB
IE = 7.1 – 2.4 = 4.7 mA

IF = 8.4 mA
IA
3.7 mA
8.4 mA

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Conservation of Energy
Energy cannot be created nor destroyed. Therefore, the electrical energy produced by the
source is equal to the sum of electrical energy consumed by all the components.

Consider a closed circuit of e.m.f. E and resistance R1 and R2.

From the conservation of energy,

Power supplied by = Power dissipated by E

the source the resistors
R1 R2
IE = I 2 R1 + I 2 R2 I

E = I R1 + I R 2 V1 V2
i.e. E = V1 + V2

Principle 2 (Kirchoff’s 2nd law) : In any closed loop in an electric circuit, the total potential rise
equals to the total potential drop along that loop.

i.e., in the circuit shown above the e.m.f. of the battery, E = V1 + V2

Worked Example 3A
Referring to the circuit drawn, determine the value of the current I and the potential difference
across each resistor.
2V
E = I (100) + I (600) + I (300)

2 = I (100 + 600 + 300) I 100  600  300 

2
I = 1000 = 0.002 A
Fig. 3A
Applying Ohm’s law,
Potential difference across the 100  resistor = 0.002 x 100 = 0.2 V
Potential difference across the 600  resistor = 0.002 x 600 = 1.2 V
Potential difference across the 300  resistor = 0.002 x 300 = 0.6 V

Earth a point in a circuit: What is the difference between potential and potential difference?

Sometimes a specific point in the circuit is earthed, which means the electrical potential at that
point is zero (0 V). The potential of the other points can be obtained by calculating the potential
difference between the earth point and the other points.

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Worked Example 3B
Considering the same circuit with the earth point O as shown in Fig. 3B. The potential at A, VA,
the potential at B, VB, and the potential at C, VC can be obtained by calculating the potential
difference between the earth point and each point (A, B and C).
2V

I
100  600  300 
O B
A C
Fig. 3B 0.2 V 1.2 V 0.6 V

Current flows from higher to lower potential, which means

VA > VO > VB > VC

VA = 0 + 0.2 = +0.2 V

VB = 0 – 1.2 = -1.2 V

VC = 0 – (1.2) – (0.6) = -1.8 V

The total potential difference between A and C is VA - VC = 0.2 - (-1.8) = 2.0 V

Note that “earthing” a certain point in a circuit does not change the pd across each resistor.

Sketch a graph to show how the potential changes from A to C.

V/V

0.2
0
A O B C

-1.2

-1.8

Worked Example 4
Referring to the circuit drawn, determine the value of I1, I and R, the combined resistance in the
circuit. 2.0 V
E = I1 (160) = I2 (4000) = I3 (32000)
2.0
 I1 = = 0.0125 A I1 160 
160
2.0 I
Similarly, I2 = = 5  10-4 A
4000 4000 
I2
2.0
and I3 = = 6.25  10-5 A
32000
I3 32000 
Since I = I1 + I2 + I3,  I = 13.1 mA
2.0
Applying Ohm’s Law, R = = 153 
13.1x10-3

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Example 5
A battery with an e.m.f. of 20 V and an internal resistance of 2.0  is connected to resistors R1
and R2 as shown in the diagram. A total current of 4.0 A is supplied by the battery and R 2 has
a resistance of 12 . Calculate the resistance of R1 and the power supplied to each circuit
component.
2.0 
E - I r = I2 R2
20 – 4.0 (2.0) = I2 (12)  I2 = 1.0 A 20 V
 I1 = 4.0 – 1.0 = 3.0 A 4.0 A R1
E – I r = I 1 R1
12 = 3.0 R1
 R1 = 4.0 Ω R2

Power supplied to R1 = (I1)2 R1 = 3.02 x 4.0 = 36 W

Power supplied to R2 = (I2)2 R2 = 1.02 x 12 = 12 W

Example 6 Graph problem (2010 P1Q9)

The graph shows the I-V characteristics of two resistors R and X.

The resistors R and X are connected in

series with a cell of negligible internal
resistance. The current in the circuit is
0.3 A.

The resistors R and X are then connected

in parallel with the same cell.

What is the e.m.f. of the cell and the current

in the cell when the resistors are connected
in parallel?

Solution:
In series: current is the same for X and R. Draw a horizontal line at 0.3 A that cuts the two lines
at 1.0 V and 1.5 V.
Therefore, total e.m.f. = 1.0 V + 1.5 V = 2.5 V

In parallel: voltage is the same for X and R. Draw a vertical line at 2.5 V that cuts the two lines
at the same value of 0.5 A.

Therefore, total current = 2 x 0.5 = 1.0 A

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14.3 Determining the Combined Resistance of Two or More Resistors

14.3.1 Combined Resistance of Resistors in Parallel

E
I1 R1 I

I
I2 R2

From Principle 1, we know that I = I 1 + I 2

Since the e.m.f. E of the battery (of negligible internal resistance) is the same across each of
the resistors, the above equation implies that:

E E E
Rc = R1 + R2 where Rc is the combined resistance in the circuit.
1 1 1
Thus, R = R + R .
c 1 2
1 1 1 1
For N resistors in parallel, the formula becomes: Rc = R1 + R2 + . . . + RN

R1R2
Special case: For two resistors in parallel, it can be shown that Rc = R + R .
1 2
This ‘product divided by the sum’ rule enables quick calculation of combined resistance.
Note: The combined resistance, Rc of resistors in parallel is always smaller than even the
smallest resistance in the parallel network. If the 2 resistors are identical, then the resultant
resistance is half of the value of one of them.

RA The value of the combined resistance of the circuit on the left

must be smaller than both RA and RB.

RB

14.3.2 Combined Resistance of Resistors in Series

I R1 R2

V1 V2
From Principle 2, we know that E = V1 + V2

Since the current in the circuit does not change, the above equation implies that:

I Rc = I R 1 + I R 2 where Rc is the combined resistance in the circuit.

Thus Rc = R 1 + R2

For N resistors in series, the formula becomes: R c = R1 + R2 + . . . + RN

Note: Resultant resistance of resistors in series is always larger than the largest resistance in
the series.

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Exercises to determine if the resistors are in parallel or in series:

In general, the resistors are

 in series if they are connected in a branch with the same current flowing through the
resistors;
 in parallel if they have the same potential difference across the resistors.

1. Are R1 and R2 in series or parallel?

E Ans: They are in series because they have the same

current through them in a branch.
R1 R2

2. Are R1 and R2 in series or parallel?

Ans: They are in parallel because they have the same potential
difference.

Are R2 and R3 in series or parallel?

Ans: They are not in series or parallel because they may not
have the same potential difference or current.

3. Are R1, R2 and R3 in series or parallel?

B D
X A R1 R2 C R3 Y

Sometimes, we can understand the circuit better by physically shifting the resistors around
without changing the connections.

R1
X
B R1
X Y B C B C
R1 R2 C R3 R2
R2
R3
Y
R3
Y
Fig. 1 Fig. 2 Fig. 3

From Fig. 1 to Fig. 2, keep the position of R2 fixed, rotate R1

clockwise about B and rotate R3 clockwise about C. From Fig. 2 to
Fig. 3, again keep the position of R2 fixed and continue to rotate R1 R1
and R3 clockwise about B and C respectively. R2

Hence, it is now obvious that R1, R2 and R3 are in parallel.

R3 R4

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4. How do you determine the equivalent resistance across AB by inspection?

5Ω Surely you are not going to calculate it the long way >>
5Ω 1 1 1 1 1 1 5
Rc = 5 + 5 + 5 + 5 + 5 = 5 , hence, Rc = 1 Ω
5Ω
A B
5Ω If there are n parallel branches each with the same
R
5Ω resistance R, then the equivalent resistance, Rc = n

5. So how do you determine the following equivalent resistance across AB by inspection?

4Ω
Ans: First consider only the four 4 Ω resistors in
4Ω parallel,
R 4Ω
4Ω Rc = n = 4 = 1 Ω
A B Now take this 1 Ω (combined resistance) and
1Ω consider it in parallel with the remaining 1 Ω resistor.
4Ω The overall equivalent resistance is therefore, 0.5 Ω.

6. So how do you determine the following equivalent resistance across AB by inspection,

taking the value of each resistor to be 2 Ω? [1.11 Ω]

For such questions, never seek to

map current flows.
R1 R5

Consider which resistors are in series

R2 R6 or parallel.
R3 R9 R7
Consider whether there are identical
branches.

R4 B R8

A
Combined resistance of left branch is 5 Ω.

R1
Hence, this diagram is basically 5 Ω // 2 Ω // 5 Ω
R2
(2.5)(2)
which is equal to 2.5 Ω // 2 Ω = 2.5 + 2 = 1.11 Ω
R3

R4 B

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Example 7
The diagram shows a network of three resistors of 3.0 Ω, 4.0 Ω and 5.0 Ω as shown.
Determine the resistance between X and Y. [J91/P1/Q14 modified] [2.25 Ω]

Consider again which resistors are in series or parallel. Y

The 4.0 Ω and 5.0 Ω resistors are in series, 3.0 

combined resistance is 9.0 Ω.
5.0 
This 9.0 Ω combined resistance is in parallel to the
X
3.0 Ω resistor as they have the same pd (ie. VXY)
4.0 
Z
Hence, the combined resistance (9.0 Ω // 3.0 Ω) =
product (9.0)(3.0)
sum = 9.0 + 3.0 = 2.25 Ω

Worked Example 8
Three resistors of resistance 2 , 3  and 4  respectively are used to make the combinations
X, Y and Z shown in the diagrams. List the combinations in order of increasing resistance.
X Y Z
2 4 3

2 2

4 3 3
4

1 1 1
Resistance for X = (  ) = 1.56 
2 43
1 1 4x3
Resistance for Y = 2  (  ) 1 = 3.71  or 4 + 3 + 2
4 3

1 1 1
Resistance for Z = (   ) 1 = 0.923 
3 2 4
Therefore, the combination of resistors in order of increasing resistance is Z X Y.

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Worked Example 9
Calculate the resistance across XY for the network shown.
2 3
1
 1 
1 
 1 1 1 5
Resistance =     5  
 2  3 4   6
 
4
6 Y
= 3.277  X

Worked Example 10 (SAJC 2017 BT1 Q23(f))

The resistance network shown in the figure below is formed by connecting 14 identical wires
each of resistance 0.1 Ω. The wires form the edges of a polygon. A current of 0.6 A enters the
corner X and leaves at the diagonally opposite corner S.

Determine the equivalent resistance of the resistance network.

Y Z
0.6 A
X W
S
T
0.6 A
U V

Solution :

The equivalent resistance would be the voltage between XS divided by the total current
through the black box.

The total current through the network is shown in the diagram to be 0.6 A.

The voltage between XS can be determined by adding up the voltage path the joins X to S,
ie VXU + VUV + VVS or VXY + VYZ + VZS or even VXY + VTW + VWV + VVS but note that there is no
current through (or voltage across) YW or TV.

Current through XU is 0.2 A.

IXU = IVS = 0.2 A, IUV = 0.1 A [1]

VXU = IXUR = (0.2)(0.1) = 0.02 V and VUV = IUVR = (0.1)(0.1) = 0.01 V

VVS = VXU = 0.02 V, [1]

VXS = VXU + VUV + VVS = 0.02 + 0.01 + 0.02 = 0.05 V

VXS 0.05
Req = = 0.6 = 0.083 Ω [1]
IXS

Tutorial qn: Q1 to Q6

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14.4 The Potential Divider

A potential divider is a circuit in which two (or more) resistors, connected in series with a
supply voltage (e.m.f.), “divide” the e.m.f. proportionally according to their resistance.

Consider the circuit below.

R1 = 6 k V1
E = 12 V
(negligible
internal
resistance)
R2 = 4 k V2

The potential difference across each resistor is a fraction of the e.m.f. of the cell and can be
calculated as shown below.

V1 = I x R1 where I = ?
R1 R2
= E Similarly, V2 = E
R1  R 2 R1  R 2

6 4
=  12 =  12
46 46

= 7.2 V = 4.8 V

Example 11
Two resistors, of resistance 300 k and 500 k respectively, form a potential divider with outer
junctions maintained at potentials of +3 V and –15 V.

+3 V 300 k X 500 k -15 V

Determine the potential at the junction X between the resistors. [ -3.75 V]

Solution:
300
The potential difference across the 300 k resistor = 300 + 500 [3 - (-15)] = 6.75 V

The potential at X = 6.75 V below 3 V = 3 - 6.75 = - 3.75 V

500
Or consider the pd across the 500 kΩ resistor = 300 + 500 [3 - (-15)] = 11.25 V

The potential at X = 11.25 V higher than -15 V = - 3.75 V

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Worked Example 12
The diagram below shows a potential divider circuit
which by adjustment of the position of the contact X, can be X
used to provide a variable potential difference between the 4 k P
terminals P and Q.
25 V Q
Determine the limits of this potential difference.
6 k

Solution:
When X is at the upper end of the resistor, the potential difference across PQ
4
=( ) x 25 = 10 V
4+6

When X is at the lower end of the resistor, the potential difference across PQ
0
=( ) x 25 = 0 V
4+6

Example 13
A 20 V battery with an internal resistance of 2.5 k is connected to a 50 k device. A voltmeter
with an internal resistance of 120 k and an ammeter with negligible internal resistance are
used to measure the potential difference across the device and the current passing through it
respectively.

(a) Sketch the circuit diagram for this setup.

(b) Determine the reading on the voltmeter and the ammeter.

Solution:
(a)

20 V 2.5 k

I
50 k
A

120 k
1
 1 1 
(b) Combined resistance parallel to the voltmeter, R =   
 50 k 120 k
= 35.3 k

35.3 k
Voltmeter reading, V = 35.3 k + 2.5 k  20 = 18.7 V

18.7
Ammeter Reading = 50000 = 0.37 mA.

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Worked Example 14
What is the value of resistor R4 if the voltmeter has no reading?

Solution:
The voltmeter has no reading when its
1000 k 2000 k upper terminal has the same potential as
the lower terminal. This happens when

V 2000 R4
2000 k R4 1000 + 2000 E = 2000 + R4 E

where E is the e.m.f. of the battery.

Solving the equation gives R4 = 4000 Ω.

Another short cut method is to use the resistor ratio of the two parallel branches. Let the current
on the top branch be I1 and the lower branch be I2

I 1  1000 I 2  2000

I 1  2000 I 2  R4

1000 2000

2000 R4
R4 = 4000 Ω.

14.4.1 The Use of a Thermistor in a Potential Divider

A thermistor is a resistor whose resistance varies greatly with temperature. Its resistance
decreases with increasing temperature. It can be used in potential divider circuits to monitor
and control temperatures, such as a heat sensor.

Example 15
In the figure below, the thermistor has a resistance of 800  when hot, and a resistance of 5000
 when cold. Determine the potential at W when the temperature is hot.
+7
Solution:
V
When thermistor is hot, potential difference across it
800 1.7 k
=  (7 - 2)
800  1700 W

= 1.6 V

The potential at W = 2 + 1.6 V = 3.6 V 2V

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14.4.2 The Use of a Light Dependent Resistor (LDR) in a Potential Divider

An LDR is a resistor whose resistance varies with the intensity of light falling on it. Its resistance
decreases with increasing light intensity. It can be used in a potential divider circuit to monitor
light intensity, such as a light sensor.

Worked Example 16
In the figure below, the resistance of the LDR is 6.0 M in the dark but then drops to 2.0 k in
the light. Determine the potential at point P when the LDR is in the light.

Solution: +18 V
In the light the potential difference across the LDR
2.0 k
= ( 3.0 k + 2.0 k ) (18 - 3)
=6V P

The potential at P = 18 – 6 3.0 k

= 12 V
3V

Worked Example 17 Un-reacheable voltage. (N2012P2Q3)

The variation with potential difference V of current I for a semiconductor diode is shown in
Fig. 14.1.

Fig 14.1 Fig 14.2

In an attempt to obtain the graph of Fig. 14.1 for the diode, a student sets up a circuit as shown
in Fig 14.2. The cell has an e.m.f. of 1.5 V and negligible internal resistance. The resistor R has
a resistance that can be varied between zero and 100 Ω. State and explain why the circuit
shown in Fig 14.2 is inappropriate for determining the graph of Fig 14.1

Solution:
Let the meters be ideal. We have 1.5 = VR + Vdiode

Highest end of graph is at 1.1 V and I = 9.2 mA, which means that VR = 1.5 - 1.1 = 0.4 V
R = 0.4 / 9.2 mA = 43.5 Ω, which is between 0 and 100 Ω.
Highest point is reachable.

Now consider lower end of graph where current I is zero. Since current I = 1.5 / (Rdiode + R), R
must be infinitely large in order to obtain zero current. The range of the variable resistor is too
low.

Hence, the circuit is inappropriate for determining the graph.

Tutorial qn: Q7 to Q13

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14.5 The Potentiometer

Voltmeter and ammeter are used to read voltage and currents in real circuits. These meters,
however introduce errors when connected to the circuit.

Ideal Practical Connections

- Infinite internal - Has a large but finite
resistance. internal resistance.
- Does not draw - Draws a small current - Always connected in
current from circuit. parallel, across the
Voltmeter
from circuit. - Not accurate because it component whose p.d.
- Reads the theoretical reads a p.d. that is is to be measured.
p.d. across the points smaller than the
connected. theoretical value.
- Has a small internal
- Zero internal resistance.
resistance. - Has a non-zero p.d. - Always connected in
- Zero p.d. across its across its ends. series along the path
Ammeter
ends. - Not accurate because it where the current
- Reads the theoretical reads a current that is is to be measured.
current in the path. smaller than the
theoretical value.

One way to reduce the errors in voltage measurement when accurate readings are needed is
to use a potentiometer.

The potentiometer is a device used to compare PD or e.m.f.. It can measure an unknown e.m.f.
by comparing this e.m.f. with a known standard e.m.f., thus, the potentiometer set-up can be
used as an improvised voltmeter.

The circuit consists of a bare resistance wire (AB) connected to a battery (driver cell), which
maintains a steady current in the wire. It also consists of a galvanometer (an analogue ammeter
whose pointer can indicate magnitude and direction of current flow) and an unknown p.d.
source (e.g. cell, battery, etc.) as shown.

Driver cell, E

L1 L2
A B

Potentiometer wire (usually,1 m)

Sliding Contact
p.d. source, V

The potential difference along the wire is proportional to the length of the wire. Unlike a normal
wire, the resistance wire has significant resistance and its resistance cannot be taken to be
negligible. The sliding contact will move along wire AB until it finds a point along the wire such
that the galvanometer shows a zero reading (when there is no current flowing through the
branch containing the p.d. source).

When the galvanometer shows a zero reading, the current through the galvanometer (and the
device that is being tested) is zero and the potentiometer is said to be “balanced”.

If the cell has negligible internal resistance, and if the potentiometer is balanced,
L1
e.m.f. or PD of the unknown source, V = L + L  E
1 2

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Note: In order for the above circuit to have a balance point, E must be greater than V. Added
to that, the polarity of the p.d. source and that of the driver cell must be the same when they
are connected to A.

From the equation we see that the accuracy of V depends on the accuracy of L1 and E.
L1 and L2 can be measured with a small percentage error if their values are large.

If L1 is 70.0 cm with uncertainty of 0.1 cm, % error = (0.1/70)x 100 = 0.14 %

The general guide in using potentiometer is therefore to ensure large values of L1, with suitable
values of E and other components.

The advantage of a potentiometer is that it can be used to measure e.m.f. E1 even if it has an
internal resistance r (refer to the circuit below) as the potentiometer does not draw current from
E1.
Driver cell, E = 8 V

L1 J L2
A B

r
E1

E1 - I r = V where V = pd across AJ
Since I = 0, E1 = V.

Illustrations: E = 8V
4V A4
A1
1 kΩ Y 1 kΩ
X A3 Z

A2
4V
V=4V
Can you tell that the current reading of ammeter A1 & A2 = 0 A and A3 & A4 = 4 mA?

The diagram on the right simulates a potentiometer circuit with balance point in the middle,
hence there is no current in the secondary circuit (XVY) while there is a constant current
(of 4 mA) in the primary circuit (EXYZ).

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Example 18
In the circuit shown, the potentiometer wire has a resistance of 60 . Determine the e.m.f. of
the unknown cell if the balanced point is at B.

Solution:
12 V 20 
Resistance of wire AB
0.65
= 0.65 + 0.35 x 60 = 39 
0.65 m B 0.35 m
e.m.f. of the unknown test cell A C
39
= 60 + 20 x 12 = 5.85 V

30  500 
unknown cell

Food for thought:

1. What is the current through the lower cell at balance point?

Ans: No current.

2. Will the balance length change if a resistor of 5000 Ω is connected in series instead with
the lower cell? Why?
Ans: No. No current flows through the resistor. Hence, no pd drops across resistor.

Watch this 9-minute video to for illustrations of potential dividers and

potentiometer. You may scan the QR code or use the tinyurl:
https://tinyurl.com/y8g8ydrz

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Worked Example 19
The diagram below shows a simple potentiometer circuit. The length and resistance of the wire
XY is 1.2 m and 1.4  respectively. [N02/P2/Q6]

The moveable contact J can be connected to any point along the wire XY.

(i) Initially, the contact J is connected to end Y. The P.D. across the wire XY is
then equal to the P.D. applied across cell C. On the figure above, mark with an
arrow the direction of the current through the cell C.

(ii) Determine the position of the contact J on XY such that there is no current
through the cell C.

(iii) To improve accuracy, the position found in (ii) should be nearer to end Y.
Suggest one way in which the circuit above may be modified so that this is
achieved.
Solution:
1.4
(i) Pd across XY = (1.4 + 0.7 )(3 V) = 2 V, hence an equivalent circuit would be :
2V
X Y As seen from diagram, VXY which is 2 V is
larger than the emf of cell C, which is 1.5 V.
Hence, the current will flow from the XY to
cell C in an anti-clockwise manner, and the
arrow drawn is from left to right entering cell
C.

(ii) If there is no current through cell C, the potential difference XJ should be equal to the
pd across cell C, which is 1.5 V. Hence, the balance point is the length XJ such that
VXJ = 1.5 V.
Since length XY = 1.2 m and corresponds to 2.0 V, length XJ would correspond to
1.5 V when it is of length 0.9 m.

(iii) Remember that this question wants the action suggested, hence, an answer such as
‘increase the resistance of XY’ would not be a practical answer. An answer must
indicate the exact action to be carried out. In theory, to increase the balance length,
we would want to reduce VXY so that a larger length is required to get the voltage
required.

1. Change the material of the wire to one with a lower resistivity.

2. Add a resistor to the main circuit so that the potential difference XY is smaller.

For 2., if this question carries high marks, you should go further to indicate what is the
limit of the resistance that could be added in series to the main circuit. In this case,
the limit is 0.70 Ω because any more than that will make it impossible to get a balance
point as VXY would have been lower than the emf of cell C.

Tutorial qn: Q14 to Q17

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SUMMARY

1. Principle 1 (Kirchoff’s 1st Law): The sum of currents entering any junction in an
electric circuit is always equal to the sum of currents leaving that junction.

Principle 2 (Kirchoff’s 2nd law) : In any closed loop in an electric circuit, the total
potential rise equals to the total potential drop along that loop.

2. Formula for the combined resistance of two or more resistors in:

SERIES - Rc = R1+ R2 + …

1 1 1
PARALLEL -   +…
R c R1 R 2

R 1 R2
OR Rc = ie ‘product over the sum’ [ONLY FOR 2 IN PARALLEL]
R1  R2

3. A potential divider is a circuit in which the resistors ‘divide’ the emf proportionally
according to their resistance.

R1 V1
E
(negligible
internal R2 V2
resistance)
R1 R2
V1 = E and V2 = E
R1  R 2 R1  R 2

4. A thermistor is a resistor whose resistance varies greatly with temperature. Its

resistance decreases with increasing temperature. It can be used in potential
divider circuits to monitor and control temperatures.

An LDR (Light dependent resistor) is a resistor whose resistance varies with the
intensity of light falling on it. Its resistance decreases with increasing light intensity.
It can be used in a potential divider circuit to monitor light intensity.

L1
5. The potentiometer is a device used to compare PD or e.m.f. where V = E
L1  L 2

Driver cell, E

L1 L2
A B

Potentiometer wire (Usually, 1 m)

Sliding Contact
p.d. source, V

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MINDMAP / NOTES

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TUTORIAL 14: DIRECT CURRENT CIRCUITS

Combined resistances

(L1) 1 Three resistors of resistance 2 , 3  and 4  respectively are used to make the combinations
X, Y and Z shown in the diagrams. List the combinations in order of increasing resistance.
X Y Z
2 4 3

2 2

4 3 3
4

[N07/P1/29]
(L2) 2 The diagram shows a resistor network connected to a 12 V battery of negligible internal
resistance. The variable resistor has the range indicated, and the voltmeter has infinite
resistance. 1.0 k
1.0 k

V
0 - 1.0 k

12 V
Calculate the maximum and minimum possible values of the voltmeter reading as the variable
resistor is altered.

[Modified N01/P2/4]
(L2) 3 A network of resistors, each of resistance 6.0 Ω, is constructed as shown below. Determine the
total resistance of the network between (a) terminals A and C, and (b) terminals A and D.
[4]
A 6.0 Ω D

6.0 Ω
6.0 Ω 6.0 Ω

6.0 Ω
B C

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Kirchoff’s Laws

[N07/P1/28]
(L1) 4 In the circuit, the battery has an e.m.f. of 12 V and an internal resistance of 3.0 . The ammeter
has negligible resistance.
6.0 

12 V
3.0 

A
6.0 

The switch is closed.

Calculate the reading on the ammeter.

(L2) 5 A circuit is set up as shown to measure the PD across and current through an 800  device.
The battery, ammeter and voltmeter have an internal resistance of 20 , 50  and 12000 
respectively. Determine the reading of the ammeter and the voltmeter. [3]
6V
20 

800 
mA

50  V

12000 

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(L2) 6 [H1 N09/1/24]

A mains circuit contains six similar lamps connected in series. One of the lamps has a broken
filament. Voltmeters X and Y of infinite resistance are placed in the circuit as shown.

What are the voltmeter readings?

Potential Divider

[J96/P1/15]
(L2) 7 A potential divider is used to give outputs of 2 V and 3 V from a 5 V source, as shown.
+5V

R1
+3V
R2

+2V
R3

0V

Which combination of resistances R1, R2 and R3 gives the correct voltages?

R1 / k R2 / k R3 / k
A 1 1 2
B 2 1 2
C 3 2 2
D 3 2 3

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[N96/P1/14]
(L2) 8 In the circuit shown, resistors X and Y, each of resistance R, are connected to a 6 V battery of
negligible internal resistance. A voltmeter, also of resistance R, is connected across Y.
Determine the reading of the voltmeter.

(L2)9 The light dependent resistor (LDR) in the circuit shown below has a resistance of 1200  when
illuminated, and a resistance of 10 M when in the dark.
+6 V

0V

Determine the value R of a suitable resistor which can be placed in series with it so that the
potential at Y changes from zero to 2 V when the LDR is illuminated. [2]

[N92/P1/13]
(L1)10 Assume the diodes shown in the diagrams are ideal (i.e. they have zero resistance in the
forward direction and infinite resistance in the reverse direction).

In which of the component arrangements is the potential at J equal to 8 V?

As an exercise, work out the potential at J for the other four options.

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[N06/III/6 mod]
(L2)11 Two resistors of resistance R1 and R2 are connected in parallel. The equivalent single
resistance is R.
(a) Calculate the value of R when

(i) R1 = 600 Ω and R2 = 3000 Ω

(ii) R1 = R2 = 600 Ώ
(iii) R1 = 600 Ώ and R2 is infinite. [4]

(b) Sketch a graph showing how R varies with R2 for a constant R1 = 600 Ω. [2]

(c) A light dependent resistor (LDR) is placed in parallel with a 600  resistor and
connected to a 12.0 V battery of internal resistance 30  as shown below.

30 
12.0 V

600 

(i) In conditions of low intensity light, the resistance of the LDR is 3000 .
Calculate
(1) the current through the LDR.
(2) the power dissipated in the LDR. [3]

(ii) Accidentally, the LDR is exposed to sunlight and its resistance falls to 100 .
Discuss whether the LDR, which is marked 0.5 W, will be damaged. [3]

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(d) Draw a labelled diagram showing how a potentiometer could be connected to the circuit
in the figure above to compare the potential differences across the LDR in (c) for
different levels of illumination. [2]

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[J96/P3/4 part]
(L2)12 A student decided to build a temperature probe and set up the circuit shown below.

The battery has e.m.f. 9.0 V and negligible internal resistance. The voltmeter has infinite
resistance.

The calibration curve for the thermistor is shown below.

4.0

3.0
Resistance / k 

2.0

1.0

0.0
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40
Temperature / o C
(a) Suggest why it is necessary to include a fixed resistor in this circuit. [1]

(b) The probe is to be used to measure temperature in the range 0oC to 30oC.
(i) Use the graph to determine the resistance of the thermistor when the probe is
at 30 oC. [1]
(ii) Hence calculate the reading on the voltmeter for the temperature of 30oC. [1]

(c) When the temperature of the thermistor is 2.5 oC, the voltmeter reads 5.30 V. The
voltmeter has a range 0 –10 V. Suggest one disadvantage of using this voltmeter in
this circuit for temperature measurement. [2]

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[N06/II/4 mod]
(L2) 13 (b) The variation with thermodynamic temperature T of the resistance R of a thermistor is
shown below.

(i) Suggest, with a reason, why the thermistor, used as a thermometer, is more
appropriate for measuring temperature in the range 273 K to 293 K than in the
range 313 K to 333 K. [2]

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(ii) Use the graph to determine the temperature corresponding to a thermistor

resistance of 1500  when measured on the thermodynamic scale of
temperature. [1]

(c) The thermistor is connected into the circuit below.

400 Ω

6V A V B

600 Ω 1200 Ω

The voltmeter connected between A and B has infinite resistance. The battery has
e.m.f. 6.00 V and negligible internal resistance.
(i) Determine the thermodynamic temperature at which the voltmeter reads zero.
Explain your working. [3]

(ii) The temperature of the thermistor is now changed and the voltmeter reads
1.20 V.
(1) Suggest why the thermistor could be at one of two different
thermodynamic temperatures. [2]

(2) Calculate the lower of these two thermodynamic temperatures. [3]

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Potentiometer

(L1) 14 A potentiometer is used to measure the e.m.f of a Cell A. The potentiometer consists of a non-
ideal driver cell of e.m.f. 20 V and a 1-metre resistance wire.
The balance length is 66 cm when the Cell A is connected to the lower circuit.
The balance length is 90 cm when a standard cell of e.m.f. 15 V is connected to the lower circuit.
Calculate the e.m.f. of Cell A. [2]

(L2)15 A potentiometer circuit is made up of a 2.00V cell in series with a resistance R and a uniform
wire AB of length 1.000 m and resistance 2.00 Ω.

(a) A thermocouple of emf 4.00mV is connected through a galvanometer when the slider is
exactly at the mid-point of AB. What is the value of R? [2]

(b) If now the resistance R is increased by 10 Ω, how far would the slider have to be
moved to obtain zero current in the galvanometer again? [2]

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[SAJC 2012 BT1 Question 25]

(L2) 16 (a) Explain why potentiometer can give a more accurate reading of the emf of a cell
compared to using a voltmeter. [2]

(b) Fig. 12.1 below shows a potentiometer which shows a balance point at Z when switches
S1 and S2 are closed.

Fig. 12.1

(i) Assuming that both cells have negligible resistance, determine the potential
difference across XZ. [2]

(ii) Hence, find the balance length XZ, if wire XY is 100 cm long. [2]

(iii) Determine the new balance length XZ’ when switch S2 is closed and S1 is open.
[2]

(iv) Determine, for the new balance length XZ’, the current through the 30  resistor
when the switch S2 is closed and S1 is open. [1]

(v) State and explain one way to improve the potentiometer measurements above.
[2]

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[SAJC 2021 BT1 Question 23]

17 The variation with potential difference V of the current I in a filament lamp is shown in
Fig. 17.1.

Fig. 17.1

(a) (i) Indicate with a cross (x) on Fig. 23.1 where the resistance of the lamp is 7.5 .
[1]

(ii) Calculate the maximum power dissipated by the lamp based on the data given in
Fig. 17.1.

(b) Explain in terms of the movement of the charged particles how the resistance of the lamp
varies with potential difference V.

[3]

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St. Andrew’s Junior College H2 Physics

(c) The lamp is connected into the circuit shown in Fig. 17.2.

Fig. 17.2
The battery in the circuit has an electromotive force E of 7.5 V and internal resistance r.
The current in the resistor of resistance 5.0  is 0.36 A.

Using the graph or otherwise, determine:

(i) the current in the resistor of resistance 14 

[2]
(ii) the internal resistance r of the battery.

[2]

(d) A potentiometer circuit is set up as shown in Fig. 17.3. The resistance wire AB is 1.2 m
long and has a total resistance of 12 . The 15 V cell has an internal resistance of 3.0
.

15 V 3.0 

A B
X

E 1.0 

(i) Determine the e.m.f. of cell, E, if the balance length AX is 0.50 m.

[2]

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St. Andrew’s Junior College H2 Physics

(ii) Describe and explain one way in which the accuracy of the experiment to
determine the e.m.f. of the cell, E, can be improved.

[2]

(iii) The potentiometer circuit using the same resistance wire AB is set up as shown in
Fig 23.4. Determine the balance length AY.

15 V 3.0 

A B
Y

5.0 V 1.0 

4.0 

[2]

Numerical Answers

1) Z X Y
2) 12 V, 8 V
3) (a) 3.0 Ω, (b) 3.75 Ω
4) 1A
5) 7.32 mA, 5.49 V
8) 2 V
9) 600 
11 (a)(i) 500 Ώ (ii) 300 Ώ (iii) 600 Ώ
(c)(i) 1) 3.77 mA 2) 0.0427 W
12 (b)(i) 1.2 k (ii) 7.3 V
13 (b)(ii) T = 292 K (c)(i) 305 K (ii) 2) 289 K
14) 11V
15) 498 Ω, 1.0 cm towards B
16) (b) (i) 1.54 V (ii) 38.5 cm (iii) 50.0 cm (iv) 0
17) (a) (ii) 1.6 W (c) (i) 0.45 A (ii) 0.81 A (d) (i) 5 V (iii) 0.4 m

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Name: …………………………… Class:………………. Marks: …………../17

TUTORIAL 14: DIRECT CURRENT CIRCUITS ASSIGNMENT

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TUTORIAL 14: DIRECT CURRENT CIRCUITS

Level 1 Solutions

1 1 1 1
Resistance for X = (  ) = 1.56 
2 43
1 1 4 x3
Resistance for Y = 2  (  ) 1 = 3.71  or +2
4 3 43
1 1 1
Resistance for Z = (   ) 1 = 0.923 
3 2 4

Therefore, in order of increasing resistance is Z X Y.

4 Method 1:
1 1
Total R = 3 + (  ) 1 Why so?
6 6

( Flip the topmost resistor (6 ) to the lowest part of ckt ;

shd now see the two 6  resistors are in parallel.

The equivalent of these 2 resistors is in series with the internal

resistance of 3  )

(Sketch the equivalent ckt.)

= 6.0 Ω
Hence total current in circuit = V / R = 12 / 6.0 = 2.0 A

Since the ammeter reading is at one of the parallel paths,

Its reading = ½ of total current, = 1 A.

Method 2:
12 – I (3.0) = 0.5 (I) (6.0) where I = total current.
→ I=2A

Hence the ammeter reading is 1 A.

Note: The total current supplied by the battery will be split equally to
each of the 6  resistors at the junction.
10
Ans: D
2 k
For Option A: Pot at J = 2 k  4 k x 12 V = 4 V
For Option B: Diode is in reverse direction bias with infinite
resistance, therefore no current. By pot divider
principle, pot at J  zero
For Option C: Diode is in reverse direction, therefore no current.
4 k
For Option D: Pot at J = 2 k  4 k x 12 V = 8 V
For Option E: Diode is in reverse direction bias, therefore no current.
Pot at J = 12 V
14 l 66 [2]
EA  A ES  (15)  11 V
lS 90

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Level 2 Solutions

2 When variable resistor is 0 k, Rc = 1.0 k. (Do you understand why?) [1]

Voltmeter reading = 12 V (maximum) Why so? [1]

When variable resistor is 1.0 k,

1
Voltmeter reading =  12 Why so? [1]
1  (1  1) 1
= 8 V (minimum)

3(a) It is equivalent to the three branches in parallel [1]

(ie 12 Ω, 6 Ω, 12 Ω in parallel),
1
1 1 1
total resistance =     =3Ω
 12 6 12 

(b) Consider resistor between AB to be in series to resistor between BC,

resistance = 6 +6 = 12 Ω.

This will then be parallel to the diagonal 6 Ω resistor,

1 [1]
 1 1
resistance =    = 4 Ω.
 12 6 

This will then be in series to the 6 Ω resistor between CD, [1]

resistance will be 4 + 6 = 10 Ω.

Finally, this (ie 10 ) is in parallel to the 6 Ω resistor between AD,

1 [1]
 1 1
resistance =    = 3.75 Ω.
 10 6 

5 1
 1 1 
Total R = 20 + 50 +    = 820  [1]
 800 12000 

6 [1]
Ammeter reading, I = = 7.32 mA
820
[1]
Voltmeter reading = 6 – (0.00732  20) - (0.00732  50) = 5.49 V

6 Ans: D
When one or more filaments are broken, the circuit will be an “open
circuit” and hence current is zero.
PD across each of the unbroken filaments = V = I R = (0)(R) = 0 V,
where R is the resistance of each filament.
Voltmeter Y thus reads 0 V.

For Voltmeter X, its left end is at the same potential as the left end of
the 240 V supply (since there is no PD across the lamp on its left).
The right end of Volmeter X is at the same potential as the right end of
the 240 V supply (since there is no PD across all the 4 lamps on its
right!)

Voltmeter X thus measures the PD across the 240 V supply,

Hence reading of voltmeter X is 240 V.

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Q1: How can the voltmeter X pointer deflect if the current is (2nd
filament) zero (line 1)?

Ans:
With voltmeter X across the broken filament (2nd lamp), the
current in the circuit will actually be approximately zero (let’s
say Z mA) (due to the infinite resistance of voltmeter X)

Q2: Why is reading of voltmeter X 240 V?

Ans:
 it’s actually abt 239.9999999… V
 since resistance of X >> every one of the filaments,
by pot divider principle, PD across X  tot PD applied
(240 V)

Q3: Why is voltmeter Y’s reading approximately (not equal) 0?

Ans:
1. What happens at 5th filament & voltmeter Y?
a) Sum of these 2 currents (Kirchoff’s 1st Law) is
approximately zero ( = Z mA ), not zero.
b) PD across each of them (in parallel): the same.
c) PD across each: >, = or < PD across AB ? (label
the pts A & B) Recall impt pt in 14-7: Equivalent
resistance < even the smallest resistors in a
parallel network. Hence reading of Y:
approximately 0.

7 Ans: B

Let current flowing through R1, R2 and R3 be i.

(R1 + R2 + R3) i. = 5 V (1)
(R2 + R3) i. = 3 V (2)
(R3) i. = 2 V (3)

R2  R3 3 R2 1
From (2) / (3),  → 
R3 2 R3 2
Subst (2) into (1), (R1) i. = 2 V → R1= R3

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St. Andrew’s Junior College H2 Physics

8 1
1 1
Total R = R +    = R + 0.5 R = 1.5 R [1]
R R
0.5R
Voltmeter reading =  6 { Do you know why?} [1]
1.5R
=2V

Hence the voltmeter reading is 2 V.

9 R
Vat Y = 6
R  RLDR

When illuminated,
R
2= 6
R  1200

R = 600 

Note: When in the dark, resistance of LDR (10 MΩ) is much bigger than
resistance of R (600 ).

Therefore potential at Y will be approximately 0 since almost all of the

6 V pd is across the 10 M.

11(a)i 1 [1]
 1 1 
R=    = 500 
 600 3000 

ii 1 [1]
 1 1 
R=    = 300 
 600 600 
iii 1 [1]
 1 1
R=    = 600 
 600   [1]

(b) R = (R2 x 600)/(R2 + 600) [2]

Sketch graph as R2 is varied:

As R2 , what approximation is valid?

R/

600
500
300

0 R2 / 

600 3000
Note: 1 mark for correct shape and 1 mark for labelling of values.

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(c)i (1) Equiv resistance of 600  & LDR ( 3000 ) in parallel= Prod over Sum
= 500 

Method 1: Potential Divider method [1]

500
Voltage across LDR = x 12 = 11.32 V
30  500
Therefore, [1]
11.32
Current through LDR = = 3.77 mA
3000
Method 2:
12
Total Current supplied by battery I= = 0.02264 A
30  500
Voltage across LDR = E – Ir = 12 – (0.02264  30) = 11.32 V [1]

Therefore,
11.32 [1]
Current through LDR = = 3.77 mA
3000
(2) Power dissipated in LDR = 0.00377  11.32 = 0.0427 W [1]

(c) ii When RLDR drops to 100 ,

12
Current supplied by battery = 1
= 0.1037 A
 1 1 
30    
 600 100 
[1]
Voltage across LDR = 12 – (0.1037  30) = 8.889 V

8.889 2 [1]
Power dissipated in LDR = = 0.790 W > 0.5 W (max safe
100
power rating)
[1]
Hence, LDR will be overheated and damaged.

(d) [2]

30 
12.0 V

600 

Note: Ensure that the “polarity of E is correct” as shown.

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12 (a)i  The fixed resistor forms a potential divider with the [1]
thermistor.
 Without the fixed resistor, the voltmeter (which will have
to be placed across the thermistor) will always read 9.0
V, regardless of the temperature of the thermistor. The
circuit will not be able to perform its function as a temp
probe.

 “Why it is necessary..” must reference the function

of this circuit. Recall Weighted Assessment 1
regarding the function of the satellite, which was to
observe the Sun continuously.
 What if the int resistance is NOT negligible? Can
this ckt perform its function without the fixed
resistor? Yes it can.

(b)i 1.2 k [1]

ii 5.0 [1]
V=  9.0 = 7.258… = 7.3 V
5.0  1.2
(c) Between 2.5 oC and 30 oC, the voltmeter reading only varies from 5.3 V [1]
to 7.3 V, which is only a narrow range (within the 0-10 V range
available)
[1]
Hence, the voltmeter is not sensitive enough as it is MAY not be able
to show small temperature changes.

13 The variation of the resistance of the thermistor is much greater [1]

(b)(i) and more linear for temperature between 273 K to 293 than for
temperature between 313 K to 333 K.

Hence, the thermometer is more sensitive in the range 273 K to 293 [1]
K.
T = 292 K (approx.) [1]
(ii)
Suppose the negative terminal of source is earthed (typically, most
(c)(i) convenient place to set the pt of zero potential)
600
 potential at A, VA = 6 [1]
600  400
= 3.6 V (fixed, independent of temp)

For voltmeter to read 0 V, potential at B, VB has to be at 3.6 V as well.

Hence,
1200
VB = 6
1200  RT [1]

1200
3.6 = 6 ,
1200  RT [1]
RT = 800 

Therefore, T = 305 K (from the graph)

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ii (1) When voltmeter reads 1.2 V, we can deduce that the voltage potential [1]
at point B could be either 1.2 V higher or lower than the voltage
potential at A.
[1]
A higher voltage potential at B will mean that the resistance of the
thermistor is lower (Do you understand why?) and hence the
temperature of thermistor is now higher.

(Note that pt B is the “low potential end” of the thermistor since

the other end of thermistor is connected to positive terminal of emf
source)

Conversely, a Lower voltage potential will mean a lower temperature.

Hence the thermistor can be at 2 different temperatures.

(2) 1200
VB = 6
1200  RT
1200
3.6  1.2 =  6 (Fr (i), VA = 3.6 V)
1200  RT
1200 1200 [1]
4.8 = 6 OR 2.4 = 6
1200  RT 1200  RT

RT = 300  OR RT = 1800  [1]

T = 333 K (326 K?) (read-off fr graph) OR T = 289 K [1]

Hence, the lower temperature will be 289 K.

15 (a) Assume driver cell has negligible internal resistance

Edriver = 2.00V
R

C2

A B
RAB = 2 

Thermocouple, emf = 4 mV, balance pt: at mid pt

Deduce PD across half of lengthAB = 4.00 mV

[1]
therefore PD across full length of AB, VAB = 2 x 4.00 mV
= 8.00 mV [1]

PD across R, VR = Edriver – PD across AB (Kirchoff’s 2nd Law), rdriver = 0

= 2.00 – 0.008 = 1.992V

Applying pot divider principle to the “upper loop” at balance:

R
VR = x 2 = 1.992
R  2.00 [1]

R = 498 Ω

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St. Andrew’s Junior College H2 Physics

(b)
[1]
New resistance = 498 + 10 = 508 Ω

Applying pot divider principle to the “upper loop” at balance:

2
VAB = x2
2  508
= 0.00784 V (7.84 m V)

Let LAC = new balance length

L AC
 V AC = x 7.84 mV where LAB = 1.000 m
L AB

At balance: VAC = emf of thermocouple ( 4 mV)

Solving, LAC = 0.51 cm

The slider has to move 1 cm towards B ( fr the mid pt, previous balance
pt)

16 (a) Potentiometer does not draw any current from the unknown emf source [1]
at balance.

When a voltmeter is connected across the terminals of an emf source, [1]

(provide diag), its reading will be the TERMINAL PD, V (= E – I r) .
I is finite not zero, hence, V will always show a reading lower than the
true value (E)- a systematic error.

(b) i At balance, By potential divider rule (consider the lower /secondary

circuit), [1]
100
VXZ = × 2 V ( since int resistance of 2 V cell is negligible) [1]
100+30

= 1.54 V
ii Since PD is proportional to L,
[1]
4.0 V  length XY (100 cm) (since int r of 4 V cell is negligible) [1]

𝐿
× 4V = VXZ ( L = LXZ)
100𝑐𝑚

At balance, Vxz = 1.54 V (ans in (i))

LXZ = 38.5 cm
iii At balance since there is no current in the secondary circuit when
S2 is closed and S1 open, there is no pd across internal resistance
of 2 V cell.

Thus, VXZ = emf of secondary cell, 2V (true even if cell in [1]

secondary ckt has internal resistance) [1]
𝐿
where VXZ = × 4V ( L = new bal length )
100𝑐𝑚

𝐿
Thus × 4V = 2V
100𝑐𝑚
L = 50.0 cm

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St. Andrew’s Junior College H2 Physics

iv I = 0 at balance point (same as (iii), no current in the secondary circuit [1]

when S2 is closed and S1 open)

v The fractional uncertainty of the balance length is reduced when the [1]
balance length (XZ) measured is larger.

This can be obtained when the potential difference across XY is [1]

lower.
One way is to connect another resistor connected in series with
wire XY.

(Copy into yr Lect Book:

To improve accuracy of “potentiometer measurements” for eg in

the determination of an unknown emf:

best is to think in terms of reducing the “pd per unit length” of

the potentiometer wire.

This will thus cause the balance length to be longer;

a longer balance length wld mean a smaller percentage

uncertainty in the measurement of the balance length.
( See also QQ17 (d) (ii) )

Note that there is no internal resistance in driver cell! (as compared to

lecture example 19.

23
17(a)(i) Resistance at any pt on I-V Characteristics = [1]

Reciprocal of Gradient of the Line joining that Pt to the

Origin

Indicate on (1.5, 0.2)

[draw a straight line from origin with gradient 1/(7.5) =0.133.
The intersection with the graph is the answer]

For R = 7.5 ,
 7.5 = Reciprocal of Gradient of the Line joining that Pt to the Origin
Thus, Gradient of this Line = 1/7.5 = 0.133 A V-1

How to draw this line whose gradient = 0.133?

1. Locate the pt (A) where I = 0.133 A & V = 1.00 V
2. Draw a straight line fr origin to pt A. Extend if necessary, to
intersect the I-V graph.
3. The intersection is the reqd pt (where R = 0.75 )
(ii)
[1]
Max power occurs at pt where product IV is the max ( hence, at
highest pt of the graph)

= 4.5 x 0.36
= 1.6 W

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St. Andrew’s Junior College H2 Physics

(b) As V increase, I increases and hence, temperature increases (as [1]

more electrical energy (IVt) is converted to thermal energy.)
Amplitude of vibration of lattice ions increases and thus collision
[1]
frequency of electrons with lattice ions increases.

Since the number of free electrons is fixed, there is no increase [1]

in charge carriers.

Hence, resistance increases with temperature.

See Topic 13: p 11

As V increases (and hence I increases),

1. filament gets hotter (temperature increases, ie gains thermal [1]
energy)
2. Amplitude of vibration of lattice ions increases, thus [1]
collision frequency of electrons with lattice ions
increases
( Number of charge carriers (free electrons) is fixed due to
the atomic structure of metal atoms, and it does not
change/increase significantly with temperature.) (may omit
this pt)
3. The greater scattering of the electrons leads to a reduced [1]
rate of flow of charge (for that value of pd);
[1]
Hence resistance increases

(c ) (i) From the graph, when current in lamp is 0.36 A, [1]

p.d. across the lamp is 4.5 V (accept 4.45 to 4.55)

 p.d. across 14  resistor = pd across “the other parallel path”

= (5.0 x 0.36) + 4.5 V

= 6.3 V (accept 6.25 to 6.35) [1]

(ii) Current in the 14  resistor = Ans in (c) (i) ÷ 14 

= 6.3 / 14 = 0.45 A (allow ECF)

Current through battery I = 0.36 + 0.45 { Kirchoff’s 1st Law }

[1]
= 0.81 A (allow ECF of 0.45A and/or 6.3V)

𝑝.𝑑. 𝑎𝑐𝑟𝑜𝑠𝑠 𝑟 7.5−6.3

Thus, Internal resistance r = 𝐼
= 0.81
= 1.5  [1]

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(d)(i) At balance, emf E = VAX

[1]
Where VAX = (RAX )/(RAB + r) x Edriver { Pot divider in pot ckt}
= ([ LAX /LAB ] x RAB ) / (12 + 3) x 15 V

=5V

(ii)
The fractional error in the balance length could be reduced
by: [1]
- using a resistance/potentiometer wire with smaller
resistance per unit length/ smaller resistivity/ thicker wire.
- add (an appropriate) resistor in series to the driver cell
- decrease e.m.f. of driver cell
{1m for any one shown above}

By potential divider rule, p.d. across resistance wire AB will

decrease, hence balance length AX will increase and thus
fractional error will be reduced.

Do not accept “increase the length of wire” (because…..)

(iii)
At balance, VAY = Terminal PD of 5.0 V cell { NOT: its emf! }
= p.d across 4 resistor
= (4/5) x 5 V
=4V

Length AY = (4/12) x 1.2 m { Resistance of wire  Length }

= 0.4 m

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St. Andrew’s Junior College H2 Physics

ASSIGNMENT [9702 J/15/2, 9702 N/19/23/6(part)]

1(a) [1]

[1]

(b)(i) [1]

[1]

[1]

[1]

(ii) [1]

[1]

(iii) [1]

[1]

2(a)(i) [1]

[1]

(ii) [1]
[1]

(b) [1]
[1]

[1]

- End of tutorial solutions -

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