IB Physics HL B 5 13 Series and Parallel Circuits Questions

Practise IB Physics HL B.5.13 by solving mixed resistor networks, potential-divider readings and power changes when circuit branches are altered.

Exam points

Reduce mixed series/parallel resistor networks to calculate equivalent resistance, total current, branch currents, voltage drops and unknown emfs.
Apply equal-current series and equal-voltage parallel rules to interpret ammeter/voltmeter readings, lamps and changes when switches or branches are altered.
Analyse potential dividers and variable-resistor networks to determine output voltage, current range and component operating conditions.

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Study B.5.13—Series and parallel circuits conceptsOpen the corresponding Concept lesson for explanations, examples and exam connections.

[Maximum number: 3]

A girl rides a bicycle that is powered by an electric motor. A battery transfers energy to the electric motor. The emf of the battery is 16 V and it can deliver a charge of 43 kC when discharging completely from a full charge.

(a)

The battery is made from an arrangement of 10 identical cells as shown.

Calculate

[ 3 ]

(i)

the emf of one cell.

[ 1 ]

$\frac{16}{5}=3.2$ « V »

(ii)

the internal resistance of one cell.

[ 2 ]

ALTERNATIVE 1:

2.5 r=0.62

r=0.25 «Ω»

ALTERNATIVE 2:

$\frac{0.62}{5}=0.124$ « $\Omega$ »

r=2(0.124)=0.248 « $\Omega$ »

Marking guidance:

Allow ECF from (d).

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IB Physics HL B 5 13 Series and Parallel Circuits Questions question 1

Question (a)

Question (i)

Question (ii)