10. D.C. circuits

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3 topics · 16 learning objectives

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  1. 10.1 Practical circuits

    1. • recall and use the circuit symbols shown in section 6 of this syllabus

    2. • draw and interpret circuit diagrams containing the circuit symbols shown in section 6 of this syllabus

    3. • define and use the electromotive force (e.m.f.) of a source as energy transferred per unit charge in driving charge around a complete circuit

    4. • distinguish between e.m.f. and potential difference (p.d.) in terms of energy considerations

    5. • understand the effects of the internal resistance of a source of e.m.f. on the terminal potential difference

  2. 10.2 Kirchhoff’s laws

    1. • recall Kirchhoff’s first law and understand that it is a consequence of conservation of charge

    2. • recall Kirchhoff’s second law and understand that it is a consequence of conservation of energy

    3. • derive, using Kirchhoff’s laws, a formula for the combined resistance of two or more resistors in series

    4. • use the formula for the combined resistance of two or more resistors in series

    5. • derive, using Kirchhoff’s laws, a formula for the combined resistance of two or more resistors in parallel

    6. • use the formula for the combined resistance of two or more resistors in parallel

    7. • use Kirchhoff’s laws to solve simple circuit problems

  3. 10.3 Potential dividers

    1. 10.3.1The principle of a potential divider circuit

      • understand the principle of a potential divider circuit

    2. 10.3.2The principle of the potentiometer as a means of comparing potential

      • recall and use the principle of the potentiometer as a means of comparing potential differences

    3. 10.3.3The use of a galvanometer in null methods

      • understand the use of a galvanometer in null methods

    4. 10.3.4The use of thermistors and light-dependent resistors in potential dividers

      • explain the use of thermistors and light-dependent resistors in potential dividers to provide a potential difference that is dependent on temperature and light intensity