a type of lamp that uses a hot wire to emit light

a resistor that can be easily changed to any value in its range

the minimum to maximum possible values in an experiment

when a measurement is taken again to improve the experiment

a line that shows the underlying trend of a set of results on a graph, it can be straight or curved

Measuring the resistance of a filament lamp

Combined science

In the Mains electricity unit, they will build on this knowledge to learn about the dangers of mains electricity, how to use mains electricity safely, the equations I=Q/t, V=E/Q and P=IV, and about the transmission of power in the national grid, including transformers.

In the Electric fields and circuit calculations unit, pupils learnt about the properties of electric fields, moving electric charge, and how to analyse series and parallel electrical circuits.

This unit explores current, resistance, and potential difference. It covers circuit design for lamps, diodes, and thermistors, and emphasises planning experiments, data interpretation, and presenting scientific conclusions.

Circuit components

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

Match each of the following components to their function in a circuit with a cell and filament lamp.

both the voltmeter and ammeter are incorrectly placed

only the variable resistor is incorrectly placed

the voltmeter, ammeter and variable resistor are incorrectly placed

What mistake has been made in the circuit shown in the diagram below?

What is 5 milliamps (mA) when converted to amps (A)?

A current of 0.6 A flows through a filament lamp when a p.d. of 3.0 V is applied across it. What is the resistance of the lamp in ohms (Ω)?

the points should be connected with straight lines between each pair

a single straight line that doesn't pass through the origin

a single straight line that passes through the origin

a single curved line that passes through the origin

What should the line of best fit look like on the graph shown?

Which of the following statements are correct when a filament lamp becomes brighter?

What is the correct name for the electrical device shown?

the wire filament is heated by an electrical current

Which of the following statements about filament bulbs is incorrect?

a voltmeter should be connected in series

a voltmeter should be connected in parallel

an ammeter should be connected in parallel

Which of the following statements are correct?

Which of the following components is represented by the circuit symbol shown?

Which of the following equations shows the correct relationship between potential difference, V, current, I and resistance, R?

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - equipment

Adult supervision required

Starter Quiz