All Flashcards
How do you calculate equivalent resistance for resistors in series?
Add the individual resistances directly: Req, s = R1 + R2 + R3 + ...
How do you calculate equivalent resistance for resistors in parallel?
Use the reciprocal method: 1/Req, p = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3 + ... Then, take the reciprocal of the sum.
How to calculate the terminal voltage of a battery?
Use the formula: ΔVterminal = ε - Ir, where ε is the EMF, I is the current, and r is the internal resistance.
Describe the steps to simplify a compound circuit to find total current.
- Calculate equivalent resistance. 2. Use Ohm's Law (V=IR) to find the total current.
Describe how to use an ammeter to measure current.
Connect the ammeter in series with the component you want to measure.
Describe how to use a voltmeter to measure voltage.
Connect the voltmeter in parallel with the component you want to measure.
What is Equivalent Resistance?
The total resistance of a circuit or a part of a circuit, simplified into one effective resistor.
What is Electromotive Force (ε)?
The potential difference a battery provides when no current is flowing; the battery's ideal voltage.
What is Terminal Voltage?
The actual voltage measured across a battery's terminals when current is flowing, which is less than the EMF due to internal resistance.
What is an Ammeter?
A device used to measure the current flowing through a specific point in a circuit.
What is a Voltmeter?
A device used to measure the potential difference (voltage) between two points in a circuit.
Define internal resistance.
The resistance within a battery that reduces the terminal voltage when current flows.
What is the effect of adding resistors in parallel to a circuit?
Decreases the overall equivalent resistance.
What is the effect of internal resistance on a battery's terminal voltage?
It causes the terminal voltage to be less than the EMF when current flows.
What is the effect of a nonideal ammeter on the current in a circuit?
Its resistance increases the total series resistance, potentially reducing the current.
What is the effect of a nonideal voltmeter on voltage measurement?
Its finite resistance can draw some current, altering the voltage reading.
What happens to terminal voltage as current increases in a real battery?
Terminal voltage decreases.