Question 1

Multiple choiceMedium1 mark

A resistor is tested by increasing the potential difference across it and recording the current. The measured values are plotted.

00.10.20.30.40.50.60.70.80.9100.511.522.533.544.555.56current, I / Apotential difference, V / VAB

Which row identifies the resistor’s behaviour and gives the ratio of power dissipated at B to that at A?

Show answer and explanation

Answer: C. At A, V/I=2.0/0.40=5.0 ΩV/I=2.0/0.40=5.0\ \Omega at B, V/I=5.0/0.80=6.25 ΩV/I=5.0/0.80=6.25\ \Omega Since the resistance is not constant, the behaviour is non-ohmic. Using P=IVP=IV PA=0.80 WP_A=0.80\ \mathrm{W} and PB=4.0 WP_B=4.0\ \mathrm{W} so PB/PA=5.0P_B/P_A=5.0

A: obtains the power ratio but treats the unequal V/IV/I values as equal, classifying the resistor as ohmic.
B: uses the current ratio, 0.80/0.40=2.00.80/0.40=2.0 as the power ratio and omits the change in potential difference.
D: assumes constant resistance and uses P∝I2P\propto I^2 giving a ratio of 4.04.0

Remember: compare V/IV/I to identify ohmic behaviour, and use P=IVP=IV for power at each operating point.

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