Series Circuits
Objective:
1. Use circuit symbols, and construct series circuits.
2. Use voltmeters & ammeters correctly in circuit.
Materials:
bulbs, voltage
source, multimeter (for voltage), 500 mA ammeter, wires, button
switch
Methods
1. Sketch a
schematic series circuit diagram with 2 bulbs, a 12V
source, and the ammeter and voltmeter properly connected.
2. Wire the circuit.
This must
now be checked by a certified physics teacher before throwing the
switch. Using the ammeter and voltmeter, record
the voltage and current. Complete
a VIRP table for this circuit.
3. Repeat steps 1
and 2 for 3 bulbs in series.
4. Unscrew 1 bulb at
a time in the 3-bulb circuit and record the effect.
5. For each circuit,
calculate the energy (W) produced if each was allowed to operate
for 60 minutes.
6. For each circuit,
calculate the amount of charge q carried in 60 minutes.
7. Write a paragraph
that compares current, voltage, power, and resistance for your
two VIRP tables.
8. Write the rules
for series circuits.
9. Explain the
correct connections for ammeters and voltmeters.
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