9.2 AS Level

Potential difference and power

8 flashcards to master this topic

Definition Flip

Define potential difference across a component in terms of energy transfer.

Answer Flip

Potential difference (V) is the energy transferred per unit charge. It is the work done (W) in moving a unit charge (Q) between two points in a circuit. V = W / Q

Calculation Flip

A 12V battery transfers 600J of energy to a component. Calculate the charge that flows through the component.

Answer Flip

Using V = W / Q, rearrange to find Q = W / V. Therefore, Q = 600J / 12V = 50 Coulombs.

Definition Flip

What is the relationship between power, potential difference, and current?

Answer Flip

Power (P) is the product of potential difference (V) and current (I). P = VI. This equation shows the rate at which electrical energy is converted into other forms of energy.

Calculation Flip

A resistor has a potential difference of 6V across it and a current of 0.5A flowing through it. Calculate the power dissipated by the resistor.

Answer Flip

Using P = VI, power P = 6V * 0.5A = 3 Watts. This represents the rate at which electrical energy is converted into heat in the resistor.

Definition Flip

State the equation that relates power, current, and resistance.

Answer Flip

Power (P) equals the square of the current (I) multiplied by the resistance (R): P = I²R. This equation is useful when the current and resistance are known.

Calculation Flip

A 2Ω resistor has a current of 3A flowing through it. Calculate the power dissipated.

Answer Flip

Using P = I²R, the power dissipated is P = (3A)² * 2Ω = 18 Watts.

Definition Flip

State the equation that relates power, potential difference and resistance.

Answer Flip

Power (P) equals the square of the potential difference (V) divided by the resistance (R): P = V²/R. This equation is useful when voltage and resistance are known.

Calculation Flip

A 10Ω resistor is connected to a 5V power supply. Calculate the power dissipated in the resistor.

Answer Flip

Using P = V²/R, the power dissipated is P = (5V)² / 10Ω = 2.5 Watts.

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9.1 Electric current 9.3 Resistance and resistivity