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MYP Physics · 13 · data analysis

Compare a resistor and a filament lamp

Electricity · Original GioPhysics question with a detailed, mark-by-mark answer guide.

Demand
routine
Marks
7
Topics
2
Answer
Complete
data analysis7 marks

A class records current at different potential differences for a fixed resistor and a filament lamp.

Current–voltage measurements
Potential difference / VResistor current / ALamp current / A
1.00.100.08
2.00.200.14
3.00.300.18
4.00.400.21
5.00.500.23
  1. a

    Calculate Calculate the resistance of the fixed resistor at 4.0 V.

    2 marks
  2. b

    Analyse Use the data to decide which component is ohmic over this range.

    3 marks
  3. c

    Explain Explain the physical reason for the changing resistance of the filament lamp.

    2 marks
Ready to self-mark?Reveal the detailed answer guide
Answer overviewKey answer: Uses R = V ÷ I with V = 4.0 V and I = 0.40 A. Obtains R = 10 Ω. Identifies the fixed resistor as ohmic.
01

a

2 marks

Calculate Calculate the resistance of the fixed resistor at 4.0 V.

How to approach it

Read the data before explaining it. Quote the relevant values or trend, show the comparison or calculation, and then connect that numerical evidence to the physical conclusion—including uncertainty or anomalies when they matter.

  1. 1

    Uses R = V ÷ I with V = 4.0 V and I = 0.40 A.

  2. 2

    Obtains R = 10 Ω.

02

b

3 marks

Analyse Use the data to decide which component is ohmic over this range.

How to approach it

Read the data before explaining it. Quote the relevant values or trend, show the comparison or calculation, and then connect that numerical evidence to the physical conclusion—including uncertainty or anomalies when they matter.

  1. 1

    Identifies the fixed resistor as ohmic.

  2. 2

    Uses evidence that current is directly proportional to potential difference, with V ÷ I constant at 10 Ω.

  3. 3

    Explains that the lamp is non-ohmic because its current does not rise in direct proportion to voltage, so its resistance changes.

03

c

2 marks

Explain Explain the physical reason for the changing resistance of the filament lamp.

How to approach it

Read the data before explaining it. Quote the relevant values or trend, show the comparison or calculation, and then connect that numerical evidence to the physical conclusion—including uncertainty or anomalies when they matter.

  1. 1

    States that the filament becomes hotter as current or power increases.

  2. 2

    Explains that increased lattice vibration makes electron motion more difficult, increasing resistance.

Private on this device

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