Factors Affecting Electrical Resistance
Recommended for grades 11–16.
Introduction
Metals are generally excellent conductors of heat and electricity. Because of this, we tend to neglect any resistance in wires when we examine the behavior of ordinary loads (bulbs, resistors, motors, etc.) in electrical circuits. But metals are not perfect conductors, otherwise the wires in our toasters would not get hot. In this experiment, you will examine the factors that affect the electrical resistance of metals.
Objectives
In this experiment, you will
- Collect potential difference and current data for a number of metal rods.
- Determine the electrical resistance for each of the readings.
- Determine how length, cross-sectional area, and type of material affect the resistance of a metal rod.
Sensors and Equipment
This experiment requires each of the following Vernier sensors and equipment (unless otherwise noted):
Power Amplifier (optional)
Current Probe (optional)
Additional Requirements
You may also need an interface and software for data collection. What do I need for data collection?
Download Experiment Preview
The student-version preview includes:
- Step-by-step instructions for computer-based data collection
- List of materials and equipment
Note: The experiment preview of the computer edition does not include essential teacher information, safety tips, or sample data. Instructions for Logger Pro and other software (such as LabQuest App or TI handheld software, where available) are on the CD that accompanies the book. We strongly recommend that you purchase the book before performing experiments.
Standards Correlations
No standards correlations for this experiment.
Experiment 9 from Advanced Physics with Vernier - Beyond Mechanics Lab Book
Included in the Lab Book
Vernier lab books include a CD with word-processing files of the student instructions, essential teacher information, suggested answers, sample data and graphs, and more.