P2 Revision Flashcards
What are components
A device in an electric circuit, such as a battery, switch or lamp
What is a fixed resistor
restricts or limits the flow of electrical current, the resistance does not change
Variable resistor
A resistor where the value of the resistance can be changed
Thermistor
An electrical device whose resistance decreases as its temperature increases- can be used in thermostats
Light dependent resistor (LDR)
A type of resistor which is affected by changes in light levels. Low light levels = high resistance, higher light intensity = resistance decreases
Name 2 types of current
- direct
- alternating
What happens in a direct current
The flow of electrons is in one direction only
What happens in alternating current
The direction of electron flow continually reverses
What is charge
A property of a body which experiences a force in an electric field (measured in coulombs)
What is the equation for charge
Charge = current x time
Q = I x t
Charge = coulombs
Current = amps
Time = seconds
What is current measured by
An ammeter
What does the current depend on
- the resistance of the component
- potential difference across the component
How do you measure potential difference across a component
A voltmeter must be placed in parallel with that component
- potential difference is known as voltage
What is the equation for potential difference
Potential difference = energy/charge
V = E/Q
What is the resistance over a longer piece of wire compared to a shorter piece of wire
The resistance is higher over a longer piece of wire. Resistance is directly proportional to length of wire