EXPERIMENT -4
Aim
To study the dependence of potential difference (V) across a resistor on the current (I) passing through it and determine its resistance(R).Also
plot a graph between V and I.
Materials Required
A voltmeter and ammeter, resistance wire or resistor, connecting wires, a key, a dry cell (or battery eliminator),a rheostat and a piece of sand
paper.
Theory/Principle
Ohm’s Law
The dependence of current on potential difference can be studied by Ohm’ slaw .According to Ohm’s law, the potential difference (V) a cross the
ends of a resistor is directly proportional to the current (I) through it provided its temperature remains the same.
i.e. V∝I or
V/I=Constant=R or
V = RI
Here, R is a constant for the given resistor at a given temperature and is called its resistance. The SI unit of resistance is ohm (Ω).
The graph between the potential differences a cross the two end so far resistor and the current passing through it is a straight line passing
through the origin. The slope of this straight line graph gives the resistance R of the resistor.
Procedure
1. Before starting the experiment, note down the range, least count and zero error of the ammeter and voltmeter.
2. Wipe the ends of the connecting wires with sandpaper to remove any insulating layer.
3. Make a set up of the circuit by connecting different components with the help of connecting wires as shown in Fig. 1(a).
4. Connect the key, the rheostat, the ammeter and the resistor in series with the connecting wires to the dry cell, as shown in the circuit
diagram [Fig.1 (b)], Ensure that positive (+) terminal of ammeter is joined to the positive (+) terminal of the cell. Make neat and tight
connections.
5. Connect the voltmeter in parallel to the resistor, as shown in circuit diagram. Ensure that the positive (+) terminal of the voltmeter is
joined to the positive (+) terminal of the cell, and the negative (-) terminal of the voltmeter joined to the negative (-)terminal of the
cell.
6. Insert the key in the plug to let the current establish in the circuit.
7. Adjust the rheostat, so that a small current passes through the resistor, say 0.1A, so the reading of ammeter will be 0.1A.
8. Read the corresponding value of potential difference from voltmeter.
9. Repeat the experiment by adjusting the slider, forth value so current0.3A, 0.4A, 0.5A etc. and record the corresponding values of
potential difference in voltmeter.
10. Lastly, plot a graph between V and me taking V along y-axis and me along x-axis.
Observation
Range of ammeter= ……… A
Least count of ammeter =................A
Zero error of ammeter= ................ A
Range of voltmeter =................ V
Least count of voltmeter = ............. V
Zero error of voltmeter = ................. V
Calculations And Graph
Mean value of resistance= (R1+ R2+R3 +R4)/4=................. Ω
Now, by plotting the graph between V and me taking V along y-axis and me along x-axis.
We get a straight line and the slope of V versus I graph gives the resistance of the resistor (as shown in Fig. 2).
i.e. tan θ = V/I = R = Resistance
⇒Slope =BC/AC =(V2 –V1)/(I2–I1) =R
Result
1. From the above calculation and observation, we have concluded that for a resistor, if temperature remains constant then current through
the resistor is directly proportional to the potential difference applied across it.
2. The value of resistance R of resistor remains the same for all value so current through it. The graph between V and I is a straight line and
passes through the origin. This verifies Ohm’s law.
Precautions
1. Wires should be thick and there in sulation of ends should be removed properly.
2. Ammeter must be connected in series with the circuit.
3. Voltmeter must be connected in parallel with the circuit.
4. Zero mark of ammeter and voltmeter should be checked properly.
Sources of Error
1. There may be a reading error of ammeter and voltmeter.
2. Area of cross-section of wire may not be uniform.
3. There may be a loose connection in electrical circuit.
