Practical Skills: RP 06 Internal Resistance and EMF: Section A - Paper 3: Physics A Level AQA

What is a source’s internal resistance?

A source’s internal resistance is the resistance of the materials inside the source. It is equal to the lost volts per unit current in the source.

What is the emf of a power source?

A power supply’s emf is the work done by the source per unit charge. It is equal to the potential difference across the source when no current flows.

State the equation used to calculate a battery’s emf from its current, load resistance and internal resistance.

𝜺 = I (R + r)

where:

R is Load Resistance

r is Internal Resistance

What is meant by the phrase ‘lost volts’?

The lost volts of a battery is the difference between the battery’s emf and its terminal potential difference.

How do you calculate a battery’s emf from its terminal potential difference, current and internal resistance?

𝜺 = V + Ir

Why should the battery be disconnected between readings?

The temperature of the circuit should remain constant throughout the experiment, so the resistance in the circuit remains constant. Disconnecting the battery when not needed mitigates heating.

Why should you avoid using a rechargeable battery/cell when carrying out this experiment?

Rechargeable power sources have a very low internal resistance which would be hard to measure in this experiment.

Why should a new cell/battery be used when carrying out this experiment?

Run-down cells and batteries have internal resistances that may fluctuate throughout the experiment. Using a new source will result in a more consistent value, that may therefore be more accurately calculated.

What safety precautions should be taken when carrying out this experiment?

If connected for long periods of time, the battery and circuitry can become hot. Avoid touching bare metal contacts and disconnect the battery when readings are not being taken.