Physics Investigatory Project on Internal Resistance and EMF of a Cell

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary and concepts related to the investigatory project on internal resistance and EMF of a cell.

Electromotive Force (EMF)

The potential difference provided by a cell when no current is drawn.

Internal Resistance

The opposition offered to the flow of current within the cell.

Ohm’s Law

A law stating that the current through a conductor between two points is directly proportional to the voltage across the two points.

Variables affecting EMF

Factors such as the nature and concentration of the electrolyte, temperature, and area of the electrodes.

Rheostat

A variable resistor used to adjust the current flowing in a circuit.

Potential Difference (V)

The voltage across the terminals of a cell when current flows.

Terminal Voltage

The voltage that is measured across the terminals of a cell when it is connected to a circuit.

Slope of the Graph

In the context of this project, it indicates the internal resistance of the cell when plotted between potential difference and current.

Slope Calculation

The change in potential difference over the change in current, indicating internal resistance.

Concentration of Electrolyte

The amount of solute in a solution that affects the internal resistance of the cell.

Temperature of Electrolyte

A variable that impacts the internal resistance; must be kept constant during readings.

Cleaning Electrodes

Using sandpaper to ensure that the surfaces of the electrodes are free from contaminants before the experiment.