P3.1.3 - Your Hospital 1 (Thermistors)

Question 1

Why is it important to keep the temperature in an incubator warm?

Answer 1

To keep the baby warm

Question 2

What type of electrical component senses the temperature inside an incubator?

Answer 2

A thermistor

Question 3

If the temperature increases what happens to the electrical resistance of a thermistor?

Answer 3

The resistance decreases (so more electricity can flow through it)

Question 4

What happens to the electrical resistance of a thermistor if the temperature decreases?

Answer 4

The resistance increases (so less electricity can flow through it)

Question 5

How can a thermistor be used to control the temperature inside an incubator?

Answer 5

1. Connect a thermistor to a voltmeter inside the incubator.
2. If the temp is too big or small, the current changes.
3. This can switch on a fan or heater.

Question 6

How can you measure a person’s heart rate?

Answer 6

Take their pulse

Question 7

Which component does the following symbol represent?

Answer 7

Thermistor

Question 8

How can we calculate the mean value of several values?

Answer 8

Add the values together and divide by how many values there are.

Question 9

What is a sensor?

Answer 9

A circuit component that detects changes in the environment (e.g. LDR - light or Themristor - temperature)