DC circuits

Kirchhoff's LawsSign up

(a) understand how the distribution of current in a circuit is a consequence of charge conservation. (b) understand how the distribution of potential differences in a circuit is a consequence of energy conservation · be able to derive the equations for combining resistances in series and parallel using the principles of charge and energy conservation, and be able to use these equations · be able to use the equations P = VI, W = VIt and be able to derive and use related equations, e.g. P = I^2 R and P = V^2/R · understand how to sketch, recognise and interpret current-potential difference graphs for components, including ohmic conductors, filament bulbs, thermistors and diodes

Potential Dividers and Internal ResistanceSign up

understand how the potential along a uniform current-carrying wire varies with the distance along it · understand the principles of a potential divider circuit and understand how to calculate potential differences and resistances in such a circuit · be able to analyse potential divider circuits where one resistance is variable including thermistors and light dependent resistors (LDRs) · know the definition of electromotive force (e.m.f.) and understand what is meant by internal resistance and know how to distinguish between e.m.f. and terminal potential difference · CORE PRACTICAL 8: Determine the e.m.f. and internal resistance of an electrical cell