What are the key differences between series and parallel circuits?
Series: Single path for current, current is the same through all components, total resistance increases. Parallel: Multiple paths for current, voltage is the same across all components, total resistance decreases.
Compare and contrast an ideal vs. a real battery.
Ideal: No internal resistance, terminal voltage equals EMF. Real: Has internal resistance, terminal voltage is less than EMF when current flows.
Differentiate between resistance (R) and resistivity (ฯ).
Resistance: Depends on the material's resistivity and dimensions (length and area). Resistivity: A material property that describes how much it resists the flow of current.
Compare how ammeters and voltmeters are connected in a circuit.
Ammeters: Connected in series, low internal resistance. Voltmeters: Connected in parallel, high internal resistance.
Label the components in a basic circuit diagram.
Battery: Long and short parallel lines; Resistor: Zig-zag line; Switch: A break in a line with a movable arm.
What is a circuit?
A closed loop that allows electrical current to flow.
What is an open circuit?
A circuit with a break in the closed loop, preventing current flow.
Define Electromotive Force (EMF).
The total energy a battery can provide per unit charge; the voltage when no current is drawn.
What is resistivity (ฯ)?
A material's property that describes how much it resists the flow of current.
Define terminal voltage.
The actual voltage provided by a battery when current is flowing, which is less than the EMF due to internal resistance.
What is internal resistance (r)?
The resistance within a real battery that affects its terminal voltage.
