4.3.1

Circuit diagrams and circuit components

4 flashcards to master Circuit diagrams and circuit components

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Key Concept Flip

A circuit contains a 12V battery, a switch, a 10Ω resistor, and an ammeter connected in series. The switch is closed. Calculate the reading on the ammeter.

Answer Flip

Formula: V = IR
Rearrange to find current: I = V/R
I = 12V / 10Ω
I = 1.2A

The ammeter reading will be 1.2 Amperes. Ohm's Law relates voltage, current, and resistance in a circuit.

Key Concept Flip

Describe how the resistance of an NTC thermistor changes as its temperature increases, and state how this change would affect the current in a series circuit containing the thermistor and a fixed resistor powered by a battery.

Answer Flip

As the temperature of an NTC thermistor increases, its resistance decreases.

In a series circuit, if the thermistor's resistance decreases, the total resistance of the circuit decreases. Since the voltage of the battery remains constant, the current in the circuit will increase (due to Ohm's Law: I = V/R).

Key Concept Flip

A circuit contains a 3.0 V battery connected in series with a diode and a 100 Ω resistor. When the diode is forward biased, its forward voltage drop is approximately 0.7 V. Calculate the current flowing through the circuit.

Answer Flip

Current, I = (Voltage of battery - Voltage drop of diode) / Resistance
I = (3.0 V - 0.7 V) / 100 Ω
I = 2.3 V / 100 Ω
I = 0.023 A

Explanation: The current is calculated using Ohm's Law, but first accounting for the voltage drop across the forward-biased diode.

Key Concept Flip

Explain why a diode is often included in a circuit with an LED.

Answer Flip

A diode is often included in a circuit with an LED to protect the LED from reverse voltage and excessive current. Diodes allow current to flow in only one direction. If the voltage polarity is accidentally reversed, the diode will block the current, preventing damage to the LED. They also limit current, increasing LED lifespan.

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4.2.5 Electrical energy and electrical power 4.3.2 Series and parallel circuits

About Circuit diagrams and circuit components (4.3.1)

These 4 flashcards cover everything you need to know about Circuit diagrams and circuit components for your Cambridge IGCSE Physics (0625) exam. Each card is designed based on the official syllabus requirements.

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