Three resistors of resistances R₁, R₂ and R₃ are connected as shown in [Figure 6.1]. The total current in the combination of resistors is I and the potential difference across the combination is V. A battery of electromotive force (e.m.f.) 6.0 V and internal resistance r is connected to a resistor of resistance 12 Ω and a variable resistor X, as shown in [Figure 6.2].
- (a)Show that the total resistance R of the combination is given by the equation 1/R = 1/R₁ + 1/R₂ + 1/R₃[2]
- (b)(i)By considering energy, explain why the potential difference across the battery's terminals is less than the e.m.f. of the battery.[2]
- (b)(ii)1.A charge of 2.5 kC passes through the battery. Calculate the total energy transformed by the battery,[2]
- (b)(ii)2.the number of electrons that pass through the battery.[1]
- (b)(iii)The combined resistance of the two resistors connected in parallel is 4.8 Ω. Calculate the resistance of X.[1]
- (b)(iv)Use your answer in (b)(iii) to determine the ratio power dissipated in X / power dissipated in 12 Ω resistor[2]
- (b)(v)The resistance of X is now decreased. Explain why the power produced by the battery is increased.[1]
This question uses a diagram from the original paper, which isn't shown here. Open the full paper from the past papers archive to see it.
Mark scheme
Marking points from the official mark scheme (Feb/Mar 2017). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.
- [B1] (a) I = I₁ + I₂ + I₃
- [A1] (a) (V/R) = (V/R₁) + (V/R₂) + (V/R₃) or (I/V) = (I₁/V) + (I₂/V) + (I₃/V) and (so) 1/R = 1/R₁ + 1/R₂ + 1/R₃
- [B1] (b)(i) e.m.f. is total energy available per unit charge
- [B1] (b)(i) energy is dissipated in the internal resistance/resistor/r
- [C1] (b)(ii)1. Energy = EQ
- [A1] (b)(ii)1. = 6.0 × 2.5 × 10³ = 1.5 × 10⁴ J
- [A1] (b)(ii)2. number = 2.5 × 10³/1.6 × 10⁻¹⁹ = 1.6 × 10²² (1.56 × 10²²)
- [A1] (b)(iii) 1/4.8 = 1/12 + 1/Rx => Rx = 8.0 Ω
- [C1] (b)(iv) P = V²/R or P = VI and V = IR
- [A1] (b)(iv) ratio = (V²/8)/(V²/12) = 12/8 = 1.5
- [B1] (b)(v) (total) current, or I, increases and P = EI or P = 6I or P ∝ I OR total (circuit) resistance decreases and P = E²/R_total or P = 36/R_total or P ∝ 1/R_total
Write your answer and get it marked
On Oracle Prep you can write or photograph your own answer and have it marked by AI against this mark scheme, with feedback on what you missed.
Sign up free →