Section 1
Section 1: Experiment Overview
Construct a basic series circuit, decode resistor values using a multimeter, and measure the
current and voltage across each component. The experiment demonstrates the application of
Ohm’s Law and the proper use of measuring instruments in a DC circuit.
Objectives
1. Assemble a DC series circuit ensuring correct polarity.
2. Decode and measure the resistance of resistors.
3. Measure the current flowing through the circuit.
4. Record voltage readings across each resistor using a digital multimeter.
Apparatus
1. 9V Battery
2. Breadboard
3. Three Resistors (of varying resistance values)
4. Single-Pole Single-Throw (SPST) Switch
5. Alligator Clips
6. Battery Adapter
7. Connecting Wires
8. Digital Multimeter
Circuit Diagram
Relative Theory
This experiment is based on Ohm’s Law, which establishes the relationship between voltage
(V), current (I), and resistance (R):
V=I×R, I=R/V, R=I/V
Theory: Ohm’s Law and Kirchhoff’s Voltage Law (KVL)
● Ohm's Law describes the relationship between voltage (V), current (I), and resistance (R):
V = I × R. It is used to calculate the behavior of electrical components in a circuit.
● Kirchhoff's Voltage Law (KVL) states:
"The algebraic sum of all voltages in a closed circuit loop is zero."
For a series circuit:
● The total voltage (Vt) is equal to the sum of the voltages across each resistor: Vt = V1 +
V2 + V3.
● The total resistance (Rt) is the sum of all resistances: Rt = R1 + R2 + R3.
1. Procedure
2. Setup:
a. Connect the 9V battery to the breadboard using the battery adapter.
b. Insert three resistors in series on the breadboard.
c. Add the SPST switch to control power flow.
d. Use connecting wires to complete the circuit.
3. Resistor Decoding and Measurement:
a. Decode the resistor values using the color bands.
b. Verify the resistance values with the digital multimeter.
4. Circuit Testing:
a. Close the switch to allow current to flow.
b. Measure the total current using the multimeter in series with the circuit.
5. Voltage Measurements:
a. Measure the voltage across each resistor with the multimeter in parallel.
Method:
The value of each resistor was determined by interpreting its color bands. The resistance was
then measured using a digital multimeter, and both the decoded and measured values were
documented.
A series circuit was constructed on a breadboard, incorporating the resistors, a 9V battery, and
connecting wires.
After activating the circuit, the following measurements were taken:
● Voltage across each resistor
● Voltage across the battery
Results
Components R1 R2 R3 Rt Battery
Calculated 2.2 150 1.2 3550
Resistance
Measured 2.12 KΩ 148.4 KΩ 1.16 KΩ 3428.4 Ω
Resistance
Calculated 6V 0.4 V 3.17 9.57 V 9v
Voltage
Measured 6V 0.4 V 3.17 9.57 V 9.4v
Voltage
Calculated 2.74 mA 2.74 mA 2.74 mA 2.74 mA
Current
Measured 3 mA 3 mA 3 mA 3 mA
Current
Conclusion:
Kirchoff’s and Ohm’s laws are accurately proven by the calculated and combined values being
compared.
