“Skills for Science – Lab assessment 2 - Analysis"

SECTION 1 - Comprehension Questions

Q1) What does the gradient of the graph represent?

The slope of the graph shows the resistance (Ω) of the circuit.The graph of current (I) will be a

straight line, and the slope of that line is proportional to the resistance

Q2) What is the expected shape of the graph based on the theory?

Ohm's law predicts a straight-line graph of voltage versus current. Starting at the origin (0V, 0A),

it should have a positive slope because current increases with voltage. This is because as the

voltage increases, the current is expected to increase proportionally while the resistance remains

constant.

Q3) What is the theoretical result we are aiming to obtain?

The theoretical result that this experiment aims to achieve is to verify the expected value of a

fixed resistor (0.05 Ω) by analyzing the slope of the voltage versus current graph.

Q4) Name one additional control variable that has not been included.

An additional control variable that can be included is the length of the connecting wire. Although

they are assumed to be insulated, their resistance can also contribute to the overall circuit

resistance.

Q5) Name 2 more general safety rules which should be followed in the lab to avoid

accidents or damage?

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Essential safety practices include

 wearing proper gear

 never working alone, reporting any potential hazards to a supervisor

SECTION 2a - Results Table and calculations

2ai) Completing the missing columns of the table.

Current (A)

Voltage (V) 1 2 3 Average

0.0 0 0 0 0

0.5 10 9 9 9.3

1.0 22 23 24 23

1.5 24 25 25 24.7

2.0 46 49 48 47.7

2.5 61 60 61 60.7

3.0 70 72 73 71.7

3.5 86 84 85 85

4.0 95 97 95 95.7

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Calculations:

2aii) The calculations used to complete the table are shown below.

Average current 0.0V = ((0 + 0 + 0) / 3) A = 0.0 A

Average current 0.5V = ((10 + 9 + 9) / 3) A = 9.3 A

Average current 1.0V = ((22 + 23 + 24) / 3) A = 23.0 A

Average current 1.5V = ((24 + 25 + 25) / 3) A = 24.7 A

Average current 2.0V = ((46 + 49 + 48) / 3) A = 47.7 A

Average current 2.5V = ((61 + 60 + 61) / 3) A = 60.7 A

Average current 3.0V = ((70 + 72 + 73) / 3) A = 71.7 A

Average current 3.5V = ((86 + 84 + 85) / 3) A = 85.0 A

Average current 4.0V = ((95 + 97 + 95) / 3) A = 95.7 A

SECTION 2b - Results Graph and gradient

2bi) Plotting a graph

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2bii) Calculating the gradient of the graph.

The formula uses to calculate the gradient of graph is:

m = (change in voltage) / (change in current)

 The slope calculated using the excel sheet is 24.77667 A/V

 Handwritten Calculations

As we can see it is very closed to computer generated slope, This positive value represents the

resistance of the resistor in the circuit.

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SECTION 3a – Discussion: Analysis of graph

The generated graph showing the relationship between the applied voltage (V) and the measured

current (I) shows a pronounced linear trend, characterized by a positive slope. This shows a

direct and proportional relationship between the two variables, where a constant increase in

voltage leads to a corresponding increase in current. This behavior aligns remarkably well with

the basic principle of Ohm's law, which states V = IR, where R represents the resistance of the

circuit.

Quantitatively, the steepness of the graph, represented by the gradient, translates into the

resistance (R) of the circuit. In this case, the calculated slope is approximately 24.77667 A/V,

which directly provides the experimental value of the resistor.

Furthermore, the data points show a high degree of consistency, closely following a linear

trendline. This consistency indicates a strong correlation between voltage and current, which

indicates a reliable and accurate representation of the circuit's behavior. No noticeable outliers or

deviations from the trendline are present, further promoting confidence in the data and validity of

the experiment.

In conclusion, the graph conclusively confirms the applicability of Ohm's law in the investigated

voltage range. The observed linear relationship between voltage and current, indicating the

absence of outliers and close adherence to theoretical predictions, the experiment successfully

measured the value of the resistor and verified the underlying physical theory.
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SECTION 3b – Discussion: Comparison to Theory

The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the relationship between voltage (V) and

current (I) in a circuit, with the expectation that the results would align with Ohm's Law.

Based on the generated graph and analysis, we can confidently conclude that the results strongly

agree with the expected theory. Several key points support this conclusion:

1. Linear Relationship: The graph shows a clear and consistent linear trend between voltage

and current. This shows a proportional relationship, where changes in voltage directly translate

into proportional changes in current. This behavior directly reflects the theoretical prediction of

Ohm's law, which states V = IR (where R is constant).

2. Strong Correlation: Data points closely follow a linear trendline, indicating a high degree of

consistency. This indicates a strong correlation between the two variables, indicating a reliable

and accurate representation of the circuit's behavior. This strong correlation aligns with the

expectation of a well-defined and consistent relationship between voltage and current, as

described by Ohm's law.

3. Absence of outliers: No significant outliers or deviations from the trendline are present in the

data. This absence of outliers reinforces the validity and reliability of the results, suggesting that

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the observed relationship is not influenced by any unexpected or unexplained factors. This aligns

with the expectation of predictable and consistent behavior based on Ohm's law.

4. Calculated resistance: The calculated slope of the graph, approximately 24.77667 A/V,

translates directly into the experimental value of the resistor. This measured value closely

matches the expected theoretical value (0.05 Ω), further attesting to the agreement with Ohm's

law.

Therefore, considering the observed linear relationship, strong correlation, absence of outliers

and close agreement with the predicted resistance value, we can confidently conclude that the

results significantly support and agree with the expected theory of Ohm's law. This experiment

successfully demonstrates the validity and applicability of Ohm's law in the investigated voltage

range and circuit conditions.

SECTION 4 – Discussion: Evaluating errors & improvements

The experiment successfully demonstrated a linear relationship between voltage and current,

aligning with Ohm's Law, it is crucial to acknowledge potential sources of error that might have

affected the accuracy and reliability of the results. Identifying and discussing these limitations

strengthens the scientific rigor of the study and lays the groundwork for future improvements.

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Potential sources of error:

Measurement uncertainties: Analogue voltmeter and ammeter readings might be subject to

inherent limitations in their precision and accuracy. Using digital instruments with higher

resolution could minimize these uncertainties.

Temperature effects: Resistance can vary slightly with temperature. Controlling the ambient

temperature during measurements or factoring in temperature correction could reduce this error.

Parallax error: Inaccurate reading angles for voltmeter and ammeter scales can introduce slight

measurement discrepancies. Using digital displays or ensuring perpendicular viewing angles

could mitigate this error.

Connection resistances: Imperfect connections between wires and components can introduce

additional resistance, affecting the overall measured value. Using high-quality connectors and

ensuring tight connections could minimize this effect.

Limited voltage range: The chosen voltage range (0-4V) might not fully represent the resistor's

behavior across a wider range, potentially affecting the calculated gradient. Expanding the

voltage range (while accounting for safety limitations) could provide a more comprehensive

understanding of the relationship.

Improvements for future experiments:

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Calibrate instruments: Regular calibration of voltmeter and ammeter can ensure their accuracy

and minimize systematic errors.

Repeat measurements: Taking multiple measurements at each voltage level and calculating the

average can enhance data reliability and identify potential outliers.

Use digital instruments: Employing digital voltmeter and ammeter with higher resolution can

improve measurement precision and reduce human error from analog scale readings.

Control temperature: Implementing a controlled temperature environment or correcting

measurements for temperature variations can minimize thermal effects on resistance.

Explore wider voltage range: Expanding the tested voltage range, while adhering to safety

considerations, can provide a more complete picture of the resistor's behavior and validate the

observed linearity at higher voltages.

By acknowledging these potential errors and outlining steps for improvement, the experiment

demonstrates a critical understanding of its limitations and paves the way for future

investigations with enhanced accuracy and reliability.

SECTION 5 – Conclusion and further work

Conclusion:

This investigation aimed to verify Ohm's Law through the analysis of the voltage-current

relationship in a circuit. The experiment successfully demonstrated a strong linear relationship

between voltage and current, with a calculated resistance value closely matching the expected

theoretical value. This aligns with the hypothesis that Ohm's Law holds true within the

investigated voltage range.

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However, acknowledging potential sources of error is crucial for evaluating the reliability of the

results. While the main error contributors are difficult to pinpoint without further analysis,

potential concerns include measurement uncertainties from instruments, temperature effects on

resistance, and connection resistances. These could have impacted the calculated resistance and

warrant further investigation in future experiments.

Extension Experiment: Investigating Temperature Dependence of Resistance

Aim:

This extension experiment aims to explore the relationship between temperature and resistance in

the resistor used in the original experiment.

Scientific Overview:

Resistance of most materials, including metals, increases with temperature. This investigation

will measure the resistance of the original resistor at different controlled temperatures to quantify

this dependence. By measuring the resistance at various temperatures (e.g., room temperature,

elevated temperatures using a heating element), we can observe the change in resistance and

calculate the temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) for the specific material.

Method:

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  Design a setup to vary and control the temperature of the resistor accurately (e.g., using a

heating element and temperature sensor).

 Measure the resistance of the resistor at different controlled temperatures using a reliable

ammeter and voltmeter.

 Plot the resistance vs. temperature data and analyze the relationship.

 Calculate the TCR, which indicates the fractional change in resistance per degree

temperature change.

Significance:

Understanding the temperature dependence of resistance is crucial in various applications where

electronic components operate under varying temperatures. This experiment provides valuable

insights into the material properties and potential changes in circuit behavior due to temperature

variations.

This extension experiment builds upon the initial investigation by exploring a related

phenomenon (temperature and resistance) and delving deeper into the material properties of the

resistor.

SECTION 6 – Observe and Analyze

6a) Hypothesis:

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Considering the experiment investigates series and parallel resistor connections, a likely

hypothesis could be:

 When two resistors are connected in series, the total resistance will be the sum of the

individual resistances.

 When two resistors are connected in parallel, the total resistance will be less than the

individual resistance.

6b) Summary of Results:

The table shows results for two configurations: Series and Parallel.

Current

Voltage (V) (A) total resistance

2.68 0.26 10.3

2.67 0.25 5.2

2.76 0.13 5.2

2.46 0.47 5.2

Series:

Voltage (V): 2.68, 2.67, 2.76

Current (A): 0.26, 0.25, 0.13

Total Resistance (Ω): Calculated as Voltage/Current: 10.3, 10.7, 21.2

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Parallel:

Voltage (V): 2.46

Current (A): 0.47

Total Resistance (Ω): Calculated as Voltage/Current: 5.2

Comparing these values:

 In the series connection, the calculated total resistance appears higher than the expected

sum of individual resistances (assumed to be 10Ω ).

 In the parallel connection, the calculated total resistance is noticeably lower than the

individual resistance (10Ω).

These observations partially support the hypothesis:

The series connection shows a higher combined resistance, but the values deviate from the

expected sum.

The parallel connection shows a lower resistance, aligning with the hypothesis.

6c) Reasons

Several factors might explain the differences between measured and expected values:

Instrument limitations: The accuracy of the voltmeter and ammeter used might influence

readings. Consider their resolution or stated error margins.

Connection resistances: Imperfect connections between wires and components can introduce

additional resistance not accounted for.

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Component tolerance: Resistors typically have a tolerance (e.g., ±5%), meaning their actual

resistance might vary slightly from the nominal value (assumed to be 10Ω here).

Environmental factors: If temperature wasn't controlled, it could slightly affect resistance.

6d) How could this experiment have been improved to increase the accuracy of the results?

To minimize discrepancies and enhance accuracy:

Use higher precision instruments: Employing digital ammeters and voltmeters with higher

resolution can reduce measurement uncertainties.

Ensure good connections: Use high-quality connectors and ensure tight connections to

minimize additional resistance.

Measure component tolerance: If possible, measure the actual resistance of each resistor using

a more precise instrument and use those values in calculations.

Control temperature: Conduct the experiment in a controlled temperature environment or

incorporate temperature correction in the analysis.

Repeat measurements: Take multiple measurements at each configuration and calculate the

average to improve data reliability and identify potential outliers.

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