A learner asked the following question: What happens to the current in a circuit if the resistors are connected in parallel? she then proceeds to the investigate her question using four identical resistors. a) write down an appropriate hypothesis for her investigation. b)write down the dependent and independent in her investigation. c)give a list of apparatus (Excluding resistors) she will need to conduct her investigation. d)Describe in point form how she go about doing her investigation and what readings she should take at each step.

Question

A learner asked the following question: What happens to the current in a circuit if the resistors are connected in parallel? she then proceeds to the investigate her question using four identical resistors.                   a) write down an appropriate hypothesis for her investigation.                   b)write down  the dependent and independent in her investigation.           c)give a list of apparatus (Excluding resistors) she will need to conduct her investigation.                               d)Describe in point form how she go about doing her investigation and what readings she should take at each step.

Damon · Answer

First measure resistance with each of them with (1)voltmeter and (2) ammeter and your battery.
R = V/i
They better be the same.
now hook in series.
current better be V/ 4R (this is just a check for completeness)
THEN
when I hook them in parallel I hypothesize that I will get i = V/R through each. Check that with voltmeter and ammeter
Then my total current I = V/R + V/R + V/R + V/R if the original i = V/R goes through each
so
I = 4 V/R = V/ (R/4)
so my equivalent R should be Requiv = R/4