Which changes would cause an increase in the resistance of a wire? Check all that apply.

Question

increasing its temperature
decreasing its temperature
using a longer wire
using a shorter wire
using a thicker wire
using a thinner wire

Answer 1

The following changes would cause an increase in the resistance of a wire:

1. Increasing its temperature - As the temperature of a conductor increases, the atoms within the material vibrate more, which can impede the flow of electrons, leading to an increase in resistance.

2. Using a longer wire - Resistance is directly proportional to the length of the wire. A longer wire provides more material for the electrons to collide with, increasing resistance.

3. Using a thinner wire - Resistance is inversely proportional to the cross-sectional area of the wire. A thinner wire has a smaller cross-sectional area, which increases resistance.

The other options (decreasing its temperature and using a shorter wire or a thicker wire) would lead to a decrease in the resistance of a wire.