9979203664/07940327045

CH-3 (CURRENT ELECTRICITY)

Session-1
1. Current Electricity: Study of electric charges in motion is called current electricity.
2. Electric current: Charge flowing through any cross section of the conductor in one second.
If a charge Q passes through an area in time t, then current I is given by, I =

If current is steady, i.e., rate of flow of charge does not change with time, then I=Q/t (rate of flow of
charges); I= dq/dt (if rate of flow of charges varies with time).
SI unit: ampere (A); 1A = 1C/1s. Electric current is a scalar quantity. Though, electric current has both
magnitude and direction, but the laws of vector addition are not applicable to the addition of the electric
currents. Thus, it is a scalar quantity.
1 milliampere = 1mA = 10-3A
1 microampere = 1A = 10-6A
Current in a domestic appliance = 1A
Current carried by a lightning = 104A
Types of current: (i)Alternating current (AC): It is a type of
electric current, in which the direction of the flow of electrons
switches back and forth at regular intervals or cycles. Current
flowing in power lines and normal household electricity that
comes from a wall outlet is alternating current.
(ii)Direct current (DC): It is electrical current which flows
consistently in one direction. The current that flows in a
flashlight or another appliance running on batteries is direct
current.
Advantage of AC over DC is that it is relatively cheap to
change the voltage of the current.
Furthermore, the inevitable loss of energy that occurs when current is carried over long distances is far
smaller with alternating current than with direct current. ( to be studied in session 6).
3. Conventional current: The current whose direction is along the direction of the motion of positive charges
under the action of electric field.
The direction of electronic current is opposite to that of the conventional current. Electronic current is in the
direction of flow of electrons.
4. Free charge carriers: The charged particles which by flowing in a definite direction set up an electric current
are called current carriers. Different types of current carriers:
a. Metals: In metallic conductors, electrons are charge carriers
b. Semiconductors: In semiconductors both holes (positive charges) and electrons are charge carriers.
c. Electrolytes and Ionised gases: Positively and negatively charged ions and electrons are charge carriers.

5. Ohms law:
Basement-2, Hindola complex, lad society road, Vastrapur, Ahmedabad 100nhigher@gmail.com ,9979203664, 079-40327045

2
1. The current flowing through a conductor is directly proportional to the potential difference applied across its
ends, provided the temperature and other physical conditions remain unchanged.
2. V I V=IR, R is called proportionality constant called resistance. SI unit is ohm () and [ML2T-3A-2].
3. Any material that has some resistance is called a resistor.
4. R depends on nature of the conductor, its dimensions and physical conditions like temperature, etc.
5. The slope of V-I graph is resistance (R) of the given
material. Higher the slope, more is the resistance on
conductor.

6. Also, R l and R
, hence R
=> R = , where is called resistivity or
specific resistance. It depends upon nature of material of conductor,
temperature and pressure. Its SI unit is ohm metre (m) and [ML3T-3A-2].
Graph for resistance v/s diameter is given beside (R
).

7. Resistivity of a material is numerically equal to resistance of a conductor, having unit length and unit crosssection area.
Order of Resistivity () of different materials
Metals: 10-8m

Semiconductors: 0.001 3000 m

Insulators: 105 1016 m

6. Conductance: It is equal to reciprocal of resistance and is denoted by G. G = . SI unit is -1 or mho or

-1 -2 3 2

siemens (S), Dimensional Formula= [M L T A ].

Conductivity: It is the reciprocal of resistvity and is denoted by . Its SI unit is -1m-1 or mho m-1 or Sm-1,
Dimensional Formula = [M-1L-3T3A2].
7. Cause of Resistance: When a potential difference is applied across a conductor, its free electrons get
accelerated. On their way, they frequently collide with the positive metal ions and this opposition to the flow
of electrons is called resistance. The number of collisions that the electrons make with the atoms/ions
depends on the arrangement of atoms or ions in a conductor. With increase in temperature, metallic
ions/atoms begin to vibrate more vigorously causing more opposition to flow of electrons and hence
resistance of the material increases.
8. Current Density: It is defined as the amount of charge flowing per second (Current) through a unit area. It is a vector
quantity and is denoted by .

j = . Its direction is along the area vector direction and its SI unit is Am-2, dimensions [AL-

].

9. Important Numerical Tools:

3
i.

For a wire of length l, cross-sectional area A and resistance R, if its length is increased by 10%, then its new
length, l becomes 1.1l. By stretching a wire, its length increases, but its volume remains the same. Hence, Al=
Al
A =(Al)/(1.1l) =(A/1.1)
Thus, R=

= (

= (1.1)2R, where R= .
2

ii.
iii.

Hence change in R is given by = (1.1 1)R = 0.21R = 21% increase.

Similarly if cross-section area changes, then we can apply the same steps as discussed in above point.
If charge (q) is given as a variable of t (time), then to find current, differentiate q w.r.t. t (time) since I=dq/dt.

10. Vector Form of Ohms Law:

If E is the magnitude of uniform electric field in the conductor whose length is l, then the potential
difference V across its ends is El, i.e.,
V = El
Now, for a given conductor the resistance is directly proportional to the length of the conductor and
inversely proportional to the area of cross-section, i.e.,
R
Hence, R =
From, Ohms law we can write:

, where is the constant of proportionality.

V = IR =

*From +

El = l

*From +

E=

[ = ], where is the current density.

As the direction of current density is same as that of ,

=
or =

or =

* = 1/+, where is known as conductivity.

11. Expression for Drift Velocity:

Consider that , , .... , are the random velocities of N free electrons, then average velocity of the electrons
will be

=0

Thus, the average velocity, is zero since the directions of electrons after collision with the fixed ions is random.
In the presence of , each e- experiences a force, -e and undergoes acceleration ,
i.e., =

, where m is the mass of an electron.

-

Now, between two successive collisions, an e gains a velocity component, randomly thermal velocity in opposite
direction to .
If an e- having random thermal velocity accelerates for time t1 (before it suffers collision) then,
= + t1
Similarly, the velocities of other e- will be
= + t2 ........
= + tN

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So the average velocity of all the N e-s is,
=
=

*From +

= 0 + ,
where =

is the average time between two collision, i.e., relaxation time.

-

Velocity gained by e during this time is:

= =

*From +

12. Drift Velocity: It is defined as the average velocity gained by the free electrons of a conductor in the
opposite direction of the externally applied electric field.
When electrons drift in a metal from lower to higher potential, then all the electrons do not mean in the
same direction. Random motion of electrons takes place.
Relaxation Time: The average time that elapses between two successive collisions of an electron. On
increasing temperature, its thermal motion increases, thus relaxation time decreases.

Homework Sheet 1
LEVEL 1 (15 marks)

Total marks: 34

Theory (13 marks)

1. Define electric current and give its SI unit.
[1 mark]
2. State Ohms law and its graph.
[1 mark]
3. Define drift velocity. A conductor of length L is connected to a dc source of emf E. If this conductor is
replaced by another conductor of same material and same area of cross-section but of length 3L, how will
the drift velocity change? [Delhi 2011,2marks]
4. Define relaxation time of free electrons drifting in a conductor. How it is related to the drift velocity of
electrons?
[KV 2012, 2 marks]
5. Define electrical resistivity and electrical conductivity of a material and give their SI unit. On what factors
does the electrical resistivity of a material depend upon?
[2 marks]
6. What is the cause of resistance in a conductor?
[2 marks]
7. Define the term 'resistivity' and 'conductivity' and state their S.I. unit. [Delhi 2013, Outside Delhi 2012,
Foreign 2011, 2marks]

Application Based (2 marks)

8. If a wire is stretched to double its length, without loss of mass how much will the resistivity of the wire
change? Also, how much will the resistance change?
[2 marks]

LEVEL 2 (19 marks)

Derivations (3 marks)
1. *Is current a vector or scalar quantity? Deduce the expression for drift velocity of electrons in a conductor.
(Refer Point 11)
[DPS, 3 marks]

Application Based (5 marks)

2.

*A potential difference of V volts is applied to a conductor of length L and diameter D. How are the electric
field and the resistance of the conductor affected when in turn (i)V is halved, (ii) L is doubled and (iii) D is
halved, where, in each case, the other two factors remain the same. Justify your answer in each case.
[Foreign 2013,Outside Delhi 2012, 3marks]
3. *Two wires of equal length, one of copper and the other of manganin have the same resistance. Which wire
is thicker?
[Outside Delhi 2012, Udgam, KV 2013, 1mark]
4. When electrons drift in a metal from lower to higher potential, does it mean that all the free electrons of the
metal are moving in the same direction? [Delhi 2012, Outside Delhi 2012, 1mark]

Graph Based (1 mark)

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5. Draw a graph to show variation of resistance of a metal wire as a function of its diameter, keeping length
and temperature constant.
[1 mark]

Numerical (10 marks)

6. The graph given below shows how the current (I) varies with applied
potential difference (v) across a 12 V, filament lamp (A) and across
one metre long nichrome wire (B). Using the graph, find the ratio of
values of the resistance of the filament lamp to the nichrome wire (i)
when potential difference across them is 12V, (ii) when potential
difference across them is 4V. How does the resistance of the filament
lamp change as the current rises? Suggest a physical significance for
this change. [Foreign 2013, 2 marks]
Ans. (i) 3:4, (ii) 1:2.
7. A rheostat has 100 turns of a wire of radius 0.4 mm and having resistivity 4.210-7m. The diameter of each
turn is 3 cm. What is the maximum value of resistance it can introduce? [2 marks]
Ans. 7.875
th
8. *A wire of resistance R=4 is stretched, so that its radius becomes 1/5 of its original value, calculate its new
resistance.
[MAV, 1 mark]
Ans. 2.5k
9. *The charge flowing in a conductor varies with time as, q=2t-6t2+10t3. Find initial current. [2 marks]Ans. 2A.
10. A uniform wire of length l and radius r has resistance 100. It is recast into a thin wire of (i) length 2l
(ii) radius r/2. Calculate the resistance of new wire in each case. [2 marks]
Ans. 400, 1600.
11. If length of a conducting wire is increased by 1% due to stretching, then by what percentage will the
resistance change?
[KV, 1mark]
Ans. 2%.

Session-2
1. Molecular concept of Resistivity:
Suppose a potential difference V is applied across a conductor of length l and of uniform cross-section A.
The electric field set up inside the conductor is given by E = .
Under the influence of field , the free electrons begin to drift in the opposite direction with an average velocity vd.
Let n be the number of electrons per unit volume (number density).
Thus, number of electrons in length l of conductor = n Volume of conductor
= nAl
Total charge contained in length l of conductor, q = enAl
Time taken by electrons to travel length of conductor, t =

Thus, Current I = =

= neAvd

Current density, j = = nevd

From vector form of Ohms law,

E = j
E = nevd
=
Thus, =

[From vd expression]

6
2. Factors affecting drift velocity:
i. With increase in temperature, drift velocity of electrons decrease, since resistance of the conductor
increases and current is inversely proportional to resistance.
ii. Drift velocity is inversely proportional to length, because on increasing length, resistance increases and
hence current decreases. Thus, drift velocity decreases.
iii. Drift velocity is proportional to area, because on increasing area, resistance decreases and hence current
increases. Thus, drift velocity increases.
3. Cause of instantaneous current: Although the drift speed of electrons is very small, of the order of 1mm/s,
yet current is transferred very fast because electrons are present everywhere in an electric circuit (number
density is high). When a potential difference is applied to a circuit, an electric field is set up throughout the
circuit, with speed of light. Electrons in every part begin to drift under the influence of this electric field and
a current begins to flow in the circuit almost immediately.
So, though electron drift speed and electronic charge is very small, but still as number density is high, hence
current through conductor is high.
4. Mobility:
Mobility is defined as the magnitude of the drift velocity per unit electric field, .
=
As drift velocity,

vd =

For an electron,

, where m is the mass of an e-.

SI unit of mobility is m2V-1s-1, dimensional formula = [M-1T2A].

For Knowledge:
Conductivity is proportional to the product of mobility and carrier concentration.
For semiconductors, the behaviour of transistors and other devices can be very different depending on
whether there are many electrons with low mobility or few electrons with high mobility. Therefore mobility is
a very important parameter for semiconductor materials. Almost always, higher mobility leads to better
device performance, with other things equal.
5. Temperature coefficient of resistivity ( ): It is defined as the increase in resistivity per unit resistivity per
degree rise in temperature. It is given by

. SI is 0C-1 and dimensions [K-1].

Thus, T = 0 *1+ (T-T0)], where T is the resistivity at temperature T and 0 is resistivity at reference
temperature T0. Also, RT = R0 [1+ (T-T0)], where RT and R0 are the resistances at temperature T and T0. These
formulas are valid only for metallic conductors.

6. Resistivity of different materials and their temperature dependence:

a. Metals (Conductors):
i.
We know, =m/ne2. In a metal, n is not dependent on
temperature and thus the decrease in the value of with
rise in temperature causes to increase as we have
observed.
ii.
With increase in temperature, thermal motion of ions
increase, i.e., atoms vibrate more vigorously and hence
resistivity of a metal increases.
iii.
Resistivity of metals is generally less. The valence electrons

7
of the metal atoms are responsible for conductivity.
iv.
Value of is high for conductors or metals.
b. Semiconductors and Insulators:
i.
We know that, =m/ne2. thus depends inversely both
on the number n of free electrons per unit volume and on
the average time between collisions.
ii.
As we increase temperature, average speed of the
electrons, which act as the carriers of current, increases
resulting in more frequent collisions.
iii.
The average time of collisions , thus decreases with
temperature. For insulators and semiconductors, n
increases prominently with increase in temperature (to be
studied in Ch-14). This increase more than compensates any decrease in so that for such
materials, decreases with temperature.
iv.
The resistivity of semiconductors is moderate and that of insulators is high at room temperature.
v.
Value of is negative for semiconductors and insulators.
c. Alloys:
i.
Some materials like Nichrome (which is an alloy of nickel, iron
and chromium) show infinitesimal change in resistivity with
increase in temperature which is represented by the beside
graph where for a large change in temperature, the change in
resistivity is very small.
ii.
The graph (B) represents very small change in temperature,
thus the graph is constant, since the change in resistivity is
negligible.
iii.
Manganin and constantan have similar properties. These materials
are thus widely used in wire bound standard resistors since their
resistivity values would change very little with temperatures.
iv.
is very small for alloys of the order of 10-5, thus its slope is also

very small.
graph (B)S

7. Resistors in Series:
Consider three resistors R1, R2 and R3 connected in series.
When a potential difference V is applied across the combination,
the same current I flows through each resistance. By Ohms law,
the potential drops across the resistance is
V1=IR1, V2=IR2, V3=IR3

If RS is the equivalent resistance of the series combination then, V = IRS.

But V is equal to the sum of the potential drops across the individual resistances.
V = V1 + V2 +V3
Or IRS = IR1+IR2+IR3
*From eq +
Or RS = R1+R2+R3
The equivalent resistance of n resistors will be,

RS = R1+R2++Rn

8. Properties of Series circuit:

i. Current through each resistor is constant.
ii. Potential drop across each resistor, Vi Ri and sum of potential drop across each resistor=Total potential
difference of battery.
iii. All electric components are operated together.
iv. For n equal resistors of resistance R connected in series, RS = nR.
9. Resistors in Parallel:
Consider three resistance R1, R2 and R3 connected in parallel between pts A and B. Let V
be the potential difference applied across the combination.
Let I1, I2 and I3 be the currents through the resistances R1, R2 and R3. Then the current in
the main circuit must be:
I = I1 + I2 + I3
Since all the resistance are connected between same two pts, the potential drop V is
\\\\\\
same across each. Now by Ohms law:
I1=

, I2=

, I3=

If RP is the equivalent resistance,

I=

But, I = I1 + I2 +I3
Or

*From eqn &+

Or

+ +

For n number of resistances,

10. Properties of Series circuit:

i. Current through each resistor is constant.
ii. Current across each resistor, Ii 1/Ri and sum of currents across each resistor=Total current of battery.
iii. For n equal resistors of resistance R each connected in parallel, RP = R/n.

11. Important Points for Combination of Resistors:

i. When n resistors of different resistances are connected in series, then the equivalent resistance is
maximum and it is greater than any largest individual resistance.
ii. When n resistors of different resistances are connected in parallel, then the equivalent resistance is
minimum and it is less than the smallest individual resistance.
iii. When resistors are connected in series, then their net length is visualised to increase and since R l,
hence resistance ses.
iv. For resistors connected in parallel, effective area of cross-section is visualised to increase, and since
R 1/A, hence resistance ses.
12. Types of Resistor Combination:
1. In the given configuration, R2 and R3 are in parallel
(current divides at point B or resistor ends of R2 and R3
meet at common point), and their combination is in
series with R1.

9
Thus, equivalent resistance of R2 and R3 is

=*

=>R23=

Now, R23 and R1 are in series. Hence, equivalent resistance of the circuit, Req = R1 +

2. In the given problem, 6 and 3 are in parallel and their combination is in series with 4. Following
steps, show the voltage drop and current passing through each resistor.

Homework Sheet 2

Total Marks: 34

Level 1 (13 marks)

Theory (8 marks)
1. Write a relation between current and drift velocity of electrons in a conductor. [Compartment 2013, 1mark ]
2. Define mobility. Write its dimensions. Write its relationship with relaxation time.
[Foreign 2010, Udgam,2 marks]

3. Differentiate conductors, semiconductors and insulators on the basis of their resistivity with example. [MAV,2 marks]
4. What happens to resistivity of conductor and semiconductors on increasing temperature? Explain with reason for each
of them?

[2 marks]

5. Define the term temperature co-efficient of resistivity. Write its SI units.

[1 mark]

Graph Based (2marks)

6. Draw the graphs showing the variation of resistivity with temperature for i) nichrome ii) silicon. [KV 2012,
2marks]

Application Based (3 marks)

7. Show that resistance decrease in case of series combination whereas decrease in case of parallel combination? [2
marks]

8. *The electron drift speed is established to be only a few mm s-1 for currents in the range of a few amperes. How then is
current established almost the instant a circuit is closed?

Level 2 (21 marks)

[1 mark]

10

Derivations (3 marks)
1. Derive the expression for the resistivity of a conductor in terms of number density of free electrons and
relaxation time.
[Delhi 2013, KV 2012, 3marks]

Application Based (3 marks)

2.
3.
4.

*What is the nature of the path of electrons between two successive collisions with positive ions of metal in the (i)
absence of electric field, (ii) presence of electric field?
[KV 2012, 1 mark]
*When electrons drift in a metal from lower to higher potential, does it mean that all the free electrons of metal are
moving in same direction? Explain.
[Udgam, KV, 1mark]
*If the electron drift speed is so small, and electrons charge too is small, then how can we obtain large amounts of
current in a conductor?
[1mark]

Numerical (15 marks)

-6

5.

A current of 5A is passing through a metallic wire of cross section area 410 m . If the density of the charge carrier in
26 -3
-1
the wire is 510 m , find the drift speed of the electrons.
[2marks]Ans. 1/64 ms .
-7 2
6. A uniform copper wire of length 1m and cross sectional area 510 m carries a current of 1A. Assuming that there are
28
3
810 free electrons per m in copper, how long will an electron take to drift form one end to the other?
3
[Udgam, 2marks]
Ans. 6.410 s.
7. An aluminium wire of diameter 2.5 mm is connected in series with a copper wire of diameter 1.6mm. A current 2A is
passed through them. Find (a) current density in aluminium wire, (b) drift velocity of electrons of copper wire. Number
29 -3
-2
-5
-1
density in copper wire is 10 m . [2 marks]
Ans. 40.8 MAm , 6.210 ms .
22
3
8. A 10C of charge flows through a wire in 5 minutes. The radius of the wire is 1mm. It contains 510 electron/cm .
-2
-6
-1
Calculate the current and drift velocity.
[Prakash,2marks]
Ans. 3.3310 A, 1.32610 ms .
9. *A uniform wire is cut into four segments. Each segment is twice as long as the earlier segment. If the shortest segment
has a resistance of 4, find the resistance of the original wire. [2 marks]
Ans. 60.
10. *A heating element using nichrome connected to a 230 V supply draws an initial current of 3.2 A which settles after a
few seconds at a steady value of 2.8 A. What is the steady temperature of the heating element if the room temperature
-4
is 27 C? Temperature coefficient of resistance of nichrome averaged over the temperature range involved is 1.710
0
0
/ C. [Delhi 2013, 3marks]
Ans.762.29 C.
0
11. At what temperature would the resistance of a copper conductor be double of its value at 0 C? Temperature coefficient
-3 0
0
of resistance of copper is 410 / C.
[2 marks]
Ans. 250 C.

Session 3
1.
2.

3.

4.

Electromotive Force (emf): It is defined as maximum potential difference between terminals of a battery
when no current is drawn from the cell. Its SI unit is Volt (V).
Electrochemical cell: It is an instrument used to convert chemical energy
to electrical energy. It consists of two electrodes, anode (P in the diag):
+ve charged and cathode (N in the diag): -ve charged. The potential
difference between these two electrodes is stored as the emf of the cell.
The potential difference between two electrodes P and N is
V+ - (-V-) = V+ + V- =E, emf of cell.
Internal Resistance: The opposition offered by electrolyte of a cell to the
flow of charge carriers of the electrolytes is called internal resistance of
the cell.
It depends on the following factors: (i) Increases with decrease in temperature, (ii) Directly proportional to
distance between electrodes, (iii) Inversely proportional to area of electrodes, (iv) Directly proportional to
concentration of electrolyte, (v) Nature of electrolyte.
Terminal Potential Difference: The potential drop across the external circuit when a current is being drawn
from the cell is called terminal potential difference (V).

11
Relation between internal resistance and emf:
Consider a cell of emf E and internal resistance r connected to an external resistance R. Suppose a constant
current I flows through this circuit.
From Ohms law,
Veff = IReff
For a cell, Veff (net potential difference) = E and Reff (net resistance) = R+r.
Thus, E = IR + Ir = I (R+r),
Hence, current in circuit is, I =

Therefore, potential difference across R is, V = IR =

Also, V = E - V= E Ir.
Thus, from above equation, r =

i.

=(

)R =(

For an open circuit, R = , hence I = 0. In this case, V = E. Graph

for V v/s R is given beside.
ii. For Imax , R=0.
iii. When battery is being charged, then V = E + Ir, whereas for
discharging it is V = E Ir.

5.

Differences between EMF and potential difference:

)R.

12

Cells in Series:
Suppose two cells of emfs E1 and E2 and internal
resistance r1 and r2 are connected in series between
pts A and C. Let I be the current flowing through the
series combination. Let VA, VB and VC be the potentials at points A, B and C. The potential difference across
terminals of the two cells is,

VAB = VA VB = E1 Ir1
And VBC = VB VC = E2 Ir2

Thus the potential difference between pts A and C is

VAC = VA VC = (VA VB) + (VB VC)

= (E1 Ir1) + (E2 Ir2)
*From & )
Or VAC = (E1 + E2) I(r1-r2)
VAC = Eeq Ireq,
where Eeq=E1+E2 and req=r1+r2
In case of n number of cells,

Eeq = E1 + E2 + .. + En & req = r1+r2+..+rn

In the above case, if E2 is reversed, then Eeq = E1 E2.
Note:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
6.

The emf of the battery is the sum of the individual emfs.

The current in each cell is the same and is identical with the current in the entire arrangement.
The total internal resistance of the battery is the sum of the individual internal resistances.
For n equal cells in series, I =

Cells in Parallel:

Suppose two cells of emfs E1 and E2 and internal resistance r1 and r2

are connected in parallel between pts A and C. Let currents I1 and I2 from
the positive terminals of the two cells flow towards the junction B1 and B2
and current I flows out.
I = I1 + I2
Since both cells between same two points, the potential difference
across both cells is same. V between terminals of E1 is

V=

=E1-Ir1

I1 =

V between the terminals of E2 is

V=

= E2-Ir2

I2 =

Hence, I = I1+I2 =

*From & +

=( + )V( + )
Or V(

)=(

)I

V=(

) - I(

V = Eeq Ireq,

)
where Eeq =

and req =

For a parallel combination of n cells,

Eeq =
In case, E2 battery is reversed, then Eeq =

+ +

and req =

+ +

13

NOTE:
(i)
The reciprocal of the total internal resistance is the sum of the reciprocals of the individual internal
resistances.
(ii)
For n equivalent cells is parallel, I =
Kirchhoffs Laws: To understand Kirchhoffs laws we must first understand few other terms:
i.
Junction: Any point in an electric circuit where two or more conductors are joined together.
ii.
Loop: Any closed conducting path in a circuit.
iii.
Branch: Any part of the circuit that lies between two junctions.

7.

Kirchhoffs first law or Current law or Junction rule: In an electric circuit, the algebraic sum of currents
at any junction is zero OR the sum of currents entering a junction is equal to the sum of currents leaving that
junction. Mathematically it is expressed as =0.

Sign Convention: (i) Current flowing towards junction is taken as positive. (ii) Current flowing away from
junction is taken as negative.
This law is based on conservation of charges.

Kirchhoffs second law or Voltage law or Loop rule: For a closed loop of network, the algebraic sum of
changes in potential must be zero OR the algebraic sum of emfs in any loop of a circuit is equal to the sum of
the products of currents and resistances in it. Mathematically, it is expressed as =0 or = .

Homework Sheet 3
Level 1 (12 marks)

Total Marks: 38

Theory (7 marks)
1.
2.
3.
4.

Define EMF and internal resistance of cell.

Write differences between electromotive force and terminal voltage of a cell?

[2 marks]
[2 marks]

State two Kirchhoffs rules.

[2 marks]

State the basic concepts on which two Kirchhoffs laws are based?

[KVV,1 marks]

Graph Based (2 marks)

5. A cell of EMF E and internal resistance r is connected across a variable resistor R. Plot a graph showing the
variation of terminal potential V with resistance R. Predict from the graph the condition under which V
becomes equal to E.
[KVS 2011, MAV, 2marks]

Application Based (3 marks)

6. Why is the terminal voltage of a cell less than its emf?
7. Can Kirchhoffs laws be applied to both d.c. and a.c. circuits?
8. Can the terminal potential difference of a cell exceed its EMF? Explain.

[1 mark]
[1 mark]
[1 mark]

Level 2 (26 marks)

Derivations (7 marks)
1.

Two cells of EMF E1and E2 and internal resistance r1 and r2 are connected in series. Deduce the expressions
for the equivalent EMF and equivalent resistance and current through the circuit.
[2 marks]

14
2.

3.

A resistance R is connected across a cell of emf E and internal resistance r. A potentiometer now measures
the potential difference between the terminals of the cell as V. Derive the expression for r in terms of E, V
and R. [Delhi 2011, 2 marks]
Two cells of emfs E1 and E2 and internal resistance r1 and r2 respectively are connected in parallel. Deduce
the expressions for (i)equivalent emf, (ii) equivalent resistance of the combination, (iii) Potential difference
between the end terminals. [Outside Delhi 2012, Udgam, 3 marks]

Application Based (7 marks)

4.
5.
6.

When cells are connected in parallel, what is the effect on (i) current capacity, (ii) EMF of cells?
(increase/decrease).
[2 marks]
When cells are connected in parallel, what is the effect on (i) current capacity, (ii) EMF of cells? [2 marks]
*A cell of emf E and internal resistance r is connected to two external resistances R1 and R2 and a perfect
ammeter. The current in the circuit is measured in four different situations: (i) without any external
resistance in the circuit, (ii) with resistance R1 only, (iii) with R1 and R2 in series combination, (iv) with R1 and
R2 in parallel combination. The currents measured in the four cases are 0.42A, 1.05A, 1.4A and 4.2 A, but not
necessarily in that order. Identify the currents corresponding to the four cases mentioned above.
[Compartment 2012, Outside Delhi 2012, 3marks]

Numerical (12 marks)

7.

A network of resistors is connected to a 16 V battery with

internal resistance of 1, as shown in Fig.: (a) Compute the
equivalent resistance of the network. (b) Obtain the current in
each resistor. (c) Obtain the voltage drops VAB, VBC and VCD.

[3 marks]
8.

9.

10.

11.

Ans. 7; 1A, 1A,2A, 2/3A, 4/3A; 4V, 2V, 8V

A battery of EMF 6.6V can supply a current of 3A through a

resistance of 1.8, what current does it supply through another
resistance of 2.9. Also calculate internal resistance of the battery. [2 marks] Ans. 2A, 0.4.
A battery of EMF E and internal resistance r gives a current of 0.4A with an external resistor of 12 and a
current of 0.25A with an external resistor of 20. Calculate (i) internal resistance, (ii) EMF of battery. [2
marks]
Ans. 4/3; 16/3V
*Write any two factors on which internal resistance of a cell depends. The reading on a high resistance
voltmeter, when a cell is connected across it, is 2.2 V. When the terminals of the cell are also connected to a
resistance of 5, the voltmeter reading drops to 1.8V. Find the internal resistance of the cell.
*Outside
Delhi 2010, 3 marks+
Ans. 10/9.
*A wire of resistance 8R is bent in the form of a circle. What is the effective resistance between the ends of
the diameter AB? [Delhi 2010, DPS, 2 marks]
Ans. 2R

Session 4
1.
Wheatstone Bridge: Wheatstone Bridge (Direct Current Bridge) is an instrument that is used to measure
the resistance or change in resistance and converts it to output current
Construction: It consists of four resistances P, Q, R and S; connected to form the arms of a quadrilateral
ABCD. A battery of emf E is connected between points A and C and a sensitive galvanometer between B and
D.
Balanced State: Let S be the resistance to be measured. The resistance of all the resistors is so adjusted that
there is no deflection in the galvanometer. The bridge is said to be balanced when the potential difference
across the galvanometer is zero so that there is no current through the galvanometer.
In the balanced condition of the bridge,

= .

15

Derivation of balanced condition from Kirchhoffs laws:

Consider a Wheatstone bridge consisting of four resistors P, Q, R and S. Across
the pair of diagonally opposite pts, source is connected, called the battery arm.
BD is the galvanometer arm. We assume that the cell has no internal resistance. On
applying Kirchhoffs first law, the currents through various junctions are as shown in
figure.
Applying Kirchhoffs junction rule to loop ABDA, we get
I1P + IgG I2R = 0,
where G is the resistance of the galvanometer,
Again applying junction rule to loop BCDB, we get
(I1-Ig)Q (I2 + Ig)S IgG = 0.

In the balanced condition of the bridge, Ig = 0. Thus, the above equations become,

I1P = I2R
I1Q = I2S
On dividing eqn by , we get

=
This proves the condition for balanced Wheatstone bridge.

2.

Sensitivity of Whetstone Bridge: A Wheatstone bridge is said to be sensitive if it shows a large deflection
in the galvanometer for a small change of resistance in the resistance arm.
i.
Wheatstone bridge is most sensitive when all the resistance of the four arms are of same order. It is
mainly used to find resistances of medium value because for low resistances end-resistances,
resistances of connecting wires become comparable to resistance being measured and hence
introduce error in the result.
Whereas for measuring high resistance, all other resistance should also be high to ensure sensitivity.
But this reduces the current through the galvanometer which then becomes insensitive.
ii.
In Wheatstone bridge, if we exchange the battery and the
galvanometer, then it does not have any effect on the
sensitivity of the bridge since condition for balance of the
bridge remains satisfied.
Thick copper wires should be used for connections in a Wheatstone
bridge since resistance 1/A, hence, resistance of wires will be low so
that it does not cause any error in the calculation of unknown resistance.
Advantage of using Wheatstone Bridge for measuring resistance is that since it is a null method, hence it
doesnt considers the cell resistances of the circuit.
Cases of Wheatstone Bridge: In the given arrangement, the system is like a wheatstone bridge where R1 and
R5 form P and Q whereas R3 and R4 form R and S and there is no current through R2.

16
3.

Meter Bridge:

It is the simplest practical application of Wheatstone bridge that is used to

measure an unknown resistance.
Principle: Its working is based on the principle of Wheatstone bridge.
When the bridge is balanced, = .
Construction: It consists of usually one metre long manganin wire of uniform
cross section, stretched along a metre scale fixed over a wooden board and with
its two ends soldered to two L-shaped thick copper strips A and C.
A resistance R is connected in the gap ab and the unknown resistance S is
connected in the gap a1b1. A source of emf E is connected across AC. A movable jockey and a galvanometer are
connected across BD.

Working: After taking out a suitable resistance R from the resistance box, the jockey is moved along the wire AC till
there is no deflection in the galvanometer. This is the balanced condition of the Wheatstone bridge.
If P and Q are resistances of parts AB and AC, then for balanced condition, = .
Let AJ=l cm, then BJ=(100-l) cm. Since the bridge wire is of uniform cross-section, therefore
Resistance of wire length of wire.

, where

is resistance per unit length of

wire.
Hence,

S=

Knowing l and R, unknown resistance can be determined.

Meter Bridge is most sensitive when the balanced condition or the null point is obtained at the centre of
the wire, i.e., at 50cm. This happens when the resistances of R and S are comparable.
At the middle of the slide wire or meter bridge, the value of the unknown resistance is most accurate.

Homework Sheet 4
Level 1 (11 marks)

Total Marks: 24

Theory (5 marks)
1. State the working principle of Wheatstone bridge. [1 mark]
2. With a circuit diagram, briefly explain how a metre bridge can be used to find the unknown resistance of a
given wire.
[KVV 2011, 3 marks]
3. When is Wheatstone bridge most sensitive?
[1 mark]

Application Based (6 marks)

4. Can Meter Bridge be used for finding the resistance of (i) moderate values, (ii) high values, (iii) low values?
Explain.
[2 marks]
5. At what positions of the jockey on slide Meter Bridge, the results are most accurate?
[1 mark]
6. Why the connections between resistors in a Wheatstone bridge are made of thick copper wire? [1 mark]
7. In the meter bridge experiment, balance point was observed at J with AJ=l. (i) The values of R and X were
doubled and then interchanged. What would be the new position of balance point? (ii) If the galvanometer
and battery are interchanged at the balance point, how will the balance point get affected? [All India 2011,
KV 2012, KV 2014, Delhi 2013 2 marks]

Level 2 (13 marks)

Derivations (3 marks)

17
1.

Using Kirchhoff's rules, obtain the balance condition in terms of the resistances of four arms of Wheatstone
bridge. [Delhi 2013, MAV, DPS, 3 marks]

Numerical (10 marks)

2.
3.

4.

5.

Determine the current in each branch of the network shown. [3 marks] Ans.4/17A,
6/17A, -4/17A, 6/17A, -2/17A.
In a meter bridge, the balancing point is found to be at 39.5 cm from resistor Y is of
12.5. Determine the resistance of X. [Delhi 2013, 2 marks]
Ans. 8.16.
With a certain resistance in the left gap of a meter bridge, the balancing point is
obtained when a resistance of 10 is taken out from the resistance box. On increasing
the resistance from the resistance box by 12.5 , the balancing point shifts by 20cm.
Find the value of the unknown resistance.
[3 marks]
Ans. 15 .
In comparing the resistance of two coils P and Q with a slide wire bridge, a balance point is obtained when
the sliding contact is 30cm from the zero end of the wire. The resistances P and Q are interchanged and the
balance is obtained at 120cm from the same end. Find the ratio of the resistances P and Q and the length of
the bridge wire.
[2 marks]
Ans. 1:4, 150cm.

Numerical Assignment 1 (26 marks)

1.

2.
3.

4.

5.

4.
5.

6.
7.

(a) Three resistors 1 , 2 , and 3 are combined in series. What is the total
resistance of the combination? (b) If the combination is connected to a battery
of emf 12 V and negligible internal resistance, obtain the potential drop across
each resistor. [2 marks]
Ans. 6, 2V, 4V, 6V.
Calculate the steady current through the 2 resistor in the circuit shown.
[Foreign 2010, 3 marks]
Ans. 9/10A.
Two cells of emf 1.5 V and 2 V and internal resistance 1 ohm and 2 ohm
respectively are connected in parallel to pass a current in the same direction through an external resistance
of 5 ohm. (a) Draw the circuit diagram. (b) Using Kirchhoffs laws, calculate the
current through each branch of the circuit and potential difference across the 5 ohm
resistor.
[Outside Delhi 2013, 3 marks]
Ans. 0.423A, 0.038A, 0.423A
(approx.)
Two cells E1 and E2 5V and 9V and internal resistances of 0.3 and 1.2 respectively
are connected to a network of resistances as shown in the figure. Calculate the value
of current flowing through the 3 resistance.
*Foreign 2010, 2 marks+
Ans. 1/3A
Calculate the value of the resistance R in the circuit shown in the figure so
that the current in the circuit is 0.2A. What would be the potential difference
between the points B and E? *Outside Delhi 2012, KV 2014, 3 marks+ Ans. 5.
A 5 V battery of negligible internal resistance is connected across a 200 V battery
and a resistance of 39 as shown in the figure. Find the value of the current.
[Delhi 2013, 2 marks]
Ans. 5A.
Two identical cells, of emf 1.5 V each are joined in parallel providing supply to an
external circuit consisting of two resistors of 13 each joined in parallel. A very
high resistance voltmeter reads the terminal voltage of the cells to be 1.4
V. Find the internal resistance of each cell. [Foreign 2013, 2 marks]
Ans. (13/14)
*Determine the current drawn from a 12V supply with internal resistance
0.5 by the infinite network. Each resistor has a resistance of 1 each.
Ans. 3.7A.
[3 marks]
A battery of 10 V and negligible internal resistance is connected across

18
the diagonally opposite corners of a cubical network consisting of 12 resistors each of resistance 1 (Fig).
Determine the equivalent resistance of the network and the current along each edge of the cube. [3 marks]
Ans. R=5/6, Value of I=4A (in fig)

8.

Determine the current in each branch of the network shown in Fig.

[3 marks]
Ans. I1=2.5A, I2=5/8 A, I3=15/8 A

Session 5
1.
Potentiometer:
It is a device used to measure an unknown emf or potential difference accurately.
It is a device which does not draw any current from the battery whose emf is to
be measured.
Potentiometer is a null method device. At null point, it does not draw any current
from the cell and thus there is no potential drop due to internal resistance of the cell.
It measures the potential difference in an open circuit which is equal to actual emf
of the cell. Because of this potentiometer is also called ideal voltmeter and hence is
preferred over voltmeter.
Principle: When a constant current flows through a wire of uniform
cross-sectional area and composition, the potential drop across any length of the
wire is directly proportional to that length.
We know by Ohms Law, V = IR = I. .
For a wire of uniform cross-section and uniform composition, and A are constants.
Therefore, when a steady current I flows through the wire, then

= =constant.

Hence, V= l => V l.
This is the principle of potentiometer.
Potential Gradient: The potential drop per unit length of the potentiometer wire is known as potential gradient. It is
denoted by or k. It is given by = . SI unit of potential gradient =Vm-1. Practical unit =Vcm-1.
Construction: It consists of a long wire AB of uniform cross-section usually 4 to 10m long, of material having high
resistivity and low temperature co-efficient such as constantan or manganin. The ends A and B are connected to a strong
battery E, a plug key K and a rheostat Rh. This circuit is called driving or auxillary circuit which sends a constant current I
through the wire AB. Thus, the potential gradually falls from A to B. A jockey can slide along the length of the wire.

19

2.

Comparison of emfs of two primary cells:

Consider in first case, position of the key where 1 and 3 are connected so that the
galvanometer is connected to E1. The jockey is connected on the wire till
the galvanometer shows no deflection. Let the pt be N1 at a distance l1
from A.
In case of loop AN1G31A, applying junction rule,
l1+0 E1=0

Similarly, another emf E2 is balanced against l2 (AN2) by closing key between

2 and 3:
l2+0 E2=0

From eqn & ,

=
Note: One of the cells chosen is a standard one (whose emf is known) so that the emf of the other cell can be easily
calculated.
3.
Internal Resistance of the cell:
Consider that a cell with emf E whose internal resistance is r is to be
Determined is connected across a resistance box through a key K2. With key
open, balance is obtained at l1 (AN1).
E = l1
When K2 is closed, the cell sends a current (I) through the resistance box.
If V is the terminal potential difference of the cell & balance is obtained at l2
V = l2
we have =

But, E = I (r+R) and V = IR,

=

From and ,

r=R(

NOTE: A potentiometer draws no current from the voltage source being measure.

4.

5.

Sensitivity of potentiometer: A potentiometer is sensitive if it can measure very small potential

differences, i.e., it shows a significant change in balancing length for a small change in potential
difference.
Sensitivity of a potentiometer depends on the potential gradient along its wire. Smaller the
potential gradient, greater is the sensitivity of the potentiometer.
Sensitivity of a potentiometer can be increased by (i) Increasing the length of the potentiometer
wire, (ii) For a fixed length of wire, decreasing the current in the circuit with help of a rheostat.
Remember Colour Coding:
B
B
R O
Y of Great Britain Very Good Wife
Gold-5% Silver-10%
Black Brown Red Orange Yellow Green Blue Violet Gray White
No fourth band = 20%
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

20

6.

7.

The first two bands from the end indicate the first two significant figures of the resistance in ohms. The third
band indicates the decimal multiplier. The last band stands for tolerance or possible variation in percentage
about the indicated values. Sometimes, this last band is absent and that indicates a tolerance of 20%.
For e.g. if there are four colour bands- red, orange, blue and gold. Then the resistance of resistor will be
23106 5%.
Non-Ohmic Conductors: Although Ohms law has been found valid over a large class of materials, but there
are materials where V I is not valid. Such types of material are:

Ohmic Loss:

Consider a conductor with end points A and B in which a current I is flowing from A to B. The electric potentials
at A and B are VA and VB. Since current is flowing from A to B, VA > VB and potential difference across AB is
V = VA VB > 0
In time t, Q=It travels from A to B.
The P.E. at A and B is QVA and QVB.
Upot. = Final P.E. Initial P.E.
= Q *VB VA]
= -QV
= -IVt < 0

21

If charge moved without collision through the conductor, K.E. would change so that the total energy remains
unchanged.
K = -Upot.
i.e., K = IVt >0
Thus, K.E. increases as charges move freely.
So though K.E. increases, but due to collisions, this energy is lost in the form of heat and thus electrons travel
with average drift velocity.
In an actual conductor, the amount of energy dissipated as heat during time interval t is
W = IVt
We know, P = IV
Using Ohms Law, V = IR, we get
P = I2R =
Thus, the above expression represents power loss (ohmic loss) in a conductor of resistance R carrying a
current I.

8.

Reason for supplying power at high voltage:

Consider a device R, to which a power P is to be delivered via transmission cables having a resistance RC to be
dissipated by it finally.
If V is the voltage across R and I the current through it, then P = VI
The connecting wires from the power station to the device has a finite resistance RC. The power dissipated in the
connecting wires, which is wasted is PC with
PC = I2RC

=
Thus to a device of power P, the power wasted in the connecting wires is inversely proportional to V.

9.

Homework Sheet 5
Level 1 (13 marks)

Total Marks: 37

Theory (10 marks)

1. What do you mean by the sensitivity of potentiometer? How it is related to the potential gradient? [KV 2012,
2 marks]
2. On what factors does the potential gradient of potentiometer wire depend?
[1 mark]
3. What is the reason for power loss in a conductor?
[2 marks]
4. Why power is transmitted at very high voltages? Explain.
[MAV, 2 marks]
5. Draw VI graph for ohmic and non-ohmic materials. Give one example for each. [All India 2013, 3 marks]

Application Based (3 marks)

22
6. Why do we prefer a potentiometer to measure EMF of a cell rather than a voltmeter? [1 mark]
7. Why do we prefer potentiometer of longer length for accurate measurements?
[1 mark]
8. If the length of the wire be (i) doubled (ii) halved, what will be the effect on the position of zero deflection in
a potentiometer? Explain.
[1 mark]

Level 2 (24 marks)

Derivations (11 marks)
1.

2.
3.

(a) State the working principle of a potentiometer. With the help of the circuit diagram, explain how a
potentiometer is used to compare the emf's of two primary cells. Obtain the required expression used
for comparing the emfs. (b)Write two possible causes for one sided deflection in a potentiometer
experiment.
[5 marks]
With the help of circuit diagram, describe a method to find the internal resistance of a primary cell. [Delhi
2013, Delhi 2010, MAV, Prakash, 3 marks]
Two heating elements of resistance R1 and R2 when operated at a constant supply of voltage V consume
powers P1 and P2 respectively. Deduce the expressions for the power of their combination when they are, in
turn, connected in (i) series, (ii) parallel across the same voltage supply. [Outside Delhi 2011, KVS, 3 marks]

Application Based (1 mark)

4.

If the EMF of the driving cell is decreased, what will be the effect on the position of zero deflection in
potentiometer? Explain.
[1 mark]

Numerical (6 marks)
5.

6.

7.

8.

A potentiometer having a wire 10m long stretched on it is connected to a battery having steady voltage. A
leclanche cell gives a null point at 750cm. If the length of the potentiometer wire be increased by 100cm find
the new position of the null point.
[2 marks]
Ans.
825cm.
A voltage of 30 V is applied across a carbon resistor with first, second and third rings of blue, black and
yellow colours respectively. Find the value of current through the resistor.
[Delhi 2013, 1 mark] Ans.
50A.
(a) You are required to select a carbon resistor of resistance 47k10% from a large collection. What should
be the sequence of colour bands used to code it? (b) Write characteristics of manganin which make it
suitable for making standard resistance.
[Foreign 2011, Udgam, 2 marks]
A current of 2mA is passed through a colour coded carbon resistor with first, second and third rings of
yellow, green and orange colours. What is the voltage drop across the resistors? [1 mark]
Ans.
90V.

Value Based (6 marks)

9.

10.

Rakesh purchased cells for his transistor. He felt that cells are not working properly. He wanted to check
their e.m.f. So, he took the cell to the physics lab and with the help of potentiometer found their e.m.f. To
his surprise e.m.f. was less than the value claimed by the manufacturer. He lodged the complaint with
consumer forum and received the deserving response.
a. What values are displayed by Rakesh?
b. What do you think why Rakesh used potentiometer instead of voltmeter to find out e.m.f. of the cell?
For more precise measurement the potential gradient of the potentiometer should be high or low?
[3 marks]
Laxmi and her mother went to the market to purchase some household articles. Laxmis mother was going to
purchase 100 W electric bulb. Laxmi advised her to purchase CFL. She told her mother that it will consume
less amount of power and will save electricity.
i.
What qualities do you notice in Laxmi?
ii.
A 100 W bulb and a 500 W bulb are joined in parallel to the mains. Which bulb will draw more
current?
[3 marks]

Numerical Assignment 2

Total Marks: 38

23
1.
2.

3.

4.

5.
6.
7.
8.

9.
10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

A heating element is marked 210 V, 630 W. Find the resistance of the element when connected to a 210 V dc source.
[Delhi 2013, 2 marks]
Ans. 70.
In a potentiometer arrangement, a cell of EMF 1.2V gives a balance point at 30cm length of the wire. This cell is now
replaced by another cell of unknown EMF. If the ratio of EMFs of the two cells is 1.5, calculate the difference in the
balancing length of the potentiometer wire in the two cases. [2 marks]
Ans. 10cm.
A standard cell of EMF 1.08V is balanced by the potential difference across 91cm of a metre long wire supplied by a cell
of EMF 2V through a series resistor of resistance 2. The internal resistance of the wire is zero. Find the resistance per
-1
unit length of the wire. [3 marks]
Ans. 0.03cm .
*A heating element using nichrome connected to a 230 V supply draws an initial current of 3.2 A which settles after a
few seconds at a steady value of 2.8 A. What is the steady temperature of the heating element if the room temperature
-4
is 27 C? Temperature coefficient of resistance of nichrome averaged over the temperature range involved is 1.710
0
0
C . [Delhi 2013, 3 marks]
Ans.762.29 C.
The resistance of a conductor is 6 at 50 C and 7 at 100 C. Calculate the temperature coefficient of resistance of the
0
-3 -1
material. Find the resistance of the conductor at 0 C. [2 marks]
Ans. 3.3310 C , 5.143.
A parallel combination of three resistors takes current of 7.5A from a 30V supply. If the two resistors are 10 and 12,
find the third one.
[2 marks]
Ans. 15
*We have n resistors each of resistance r. These are first connected to get minimum resistance and then again
2
connected to get maximum resistance. Compute the ratio of resistances in the two cases. [1 mark]
Ans.1:n .
Two wires X, Y have the same resistivity, but their cross-sectional areas are in the ratio 2:3 and lengths in the ratio 1:2.
They are first connected in series and then in parallel. Find out the ratio of drift speeds of electrons in the two wires for
two cases.
[KV 2011, 2 marks]
Ans. 3:2, 2:1.
A resistor of 5 is connected in series with a parallel combination of a number of resistors each of 5. If the total
resistance of the combination is 6. How many resistors are in parallel?
[2 marks]
Ans. 5.
A 10m long wire of uniform cross section and resistance 20 resistance is used in a potentiometer. The wire is
connected in series with a battery of 5V along with an external resistance of 480. If an unknown EMF E is balanced at
6m of the wire, calculate (i) potential gradient of the wire, (ii) the value of unknown EMF E.
[Delhi 2006, 3
-1
marks]
Ans. 0.02Vm , 0.12V.
In a potentiometer circuit for comparison of two resistances, the balance point with a standard resistance R=10 is at
58.3cm while with that of unknown resistance X is 68.5cm. Determine the value of X. What might you do if you failed to
find a balance point with the given cell of EMF E?
[2 marks]
Ans. 11.75.
In the figure a long uniform potentiometer wire AB is having a constant potential
gradient along its length. The null points for the two primary cells of emf E 1 and E2
connected in the manner shown are obtained at a distance of 120cm and 300 cm from
the end A. Find (i) E1/E2 and (ii) position of null point for the cell E 1. How is the sensitivity
of the potentiometer increased? [Outside Delhi 2012, 3 marks] Ans. 7:3, 210cm
Using Kirchoffs rules determine the value of unknown resistance R in the circuit so that
no current flows through 4 resistance. Also find the potential difference between A
and D. [Compartment 2012, Outside Delhi 2012, 3 marks]
Ans. 2, 3V.
The supply voltage to a room is 120V. The resistance of the lead wires is 6. A 60W bulb
is already switched on. What is the decrease of voltage across the bulb, when a 240W
heater is switched on in parallel to the bulb? (a) 10.04 Volt, (b) 0 Volt, (c) 2.9 Volt, (d)
13.3 Volt. [JEE Main 2013, 4 marks] Ans. (a)
Two electric bulbs marked 25W 220V and 100W 220V are connected in series to a 440Vsupply. Which of the bulbs
will fuse? (a) both (b) 100 W (c) 25 W (d) neither.
[AIEEE 2012]
[4 marks]
Ans. (c)