Objectives * Equipment * Activity
 


Simple Circuits
Modified 8/11/03
With proper referencing, educators are welcome to use this for instructive purposes. Any other permission of publication (written or electronic) is denied without express prior consent from Dr. Philip Casabella.

OBJECTIVES :

  • Calculate equivalent resistance for a variety of simple circuits
  • Determine relationships between voltage, current, and resistance in a variety of simple circuits

EQUIPMENT:
Carbon Resistor

Multimeter
Jumper Wires  
ACTIVITY:

In this experiment, you will investigate the equivalent resistance of several combinations of resistors. You have been supplied with three resistors. Set the multimeter as an ohmmeter, and measure the resistance of each of the resistors. On your paper, record your results as shown below. To help keep track of the resistors, call the two brown resistors R1 and R2, and call the one with colored bands R3. Record the resistance of each below.

R1 = _____________ R2 = _____________ R3 = _____________

Now, connect the resistors as shown in each diagram and determine the equivalent resistance by calculation and by measurement. Then record the results in the spaces provided.

Diagram Req Measured Req Calculated
   
   
   
   
   
   


7. Suppose a potential difference of 10.0 V was applied across the configuration shown in question 1. How much current would flow through R1? How much current would flow through R3?

8. Suppose a potential difference of 10.0 V was applied across the configuration shown in question 1. How much power would be dissipated in R1? How much power would be dissipated in R3?

9. Suppose a potential difference of 10.0 V was applied across the configuration shown in question 3. How much current would flow through R1? How much current would flow through R2?

10. Suppose a potential difference of 10.0 V was applied across the configuration shown in question 3. How much power would be dissipated in R1? How much power would be dissipated in R2?

11. Suppose a potential difference of 10.0 V was applied across the configuration shown in question 6. How much current would flow through R1? How much current would flow through R2? How much current would flow through R3?

12. Suppose a potential difference of 10.0 V was applied across the configuration shown in question 6. How much power would be dissipated in R1? How much power would be dissipated in R2? How much power would be dissipated in R3?