3.5.1.2 Current Voltage Characteristics

Colonel Frank Seely School
Exampro A-level Physics Name:
(7407/7408) Class:
3.5.1.2 Current-voltage characteristics
Author:
Date:
Time: 205
Marks: 147
Comments:

Page 1
Q1.The 12 V battery in the circuit shown has negligible internal resistance. The diodes have
'ideal' characteristics.
The current through the battery is approximately

A 0A
B 0.10 A
C 0.20 A
D 0.40 A
(Total 1 mark)
Q2.The diagram below shows a graph of potential difference against current for a thermistor.
(a) Sketch an experimental arrangement that you could use to collect the data for this
graph.
(3)
Page 2
(b) The thermistor is connected in parallel with a 2.0 kΩ resistor. The current in the
resistor is 6.0 mA.
(i) Calculate the potential difference across the thermistor.
Potential difference = ................................................

(2)
(ii) Use the graph to calculate the power dissipated in the thermistor.
Power dissipated in thermistor = ..............................

(3)
(c) Describe and explain what happens to the resistance of the thermistor as its
temperature increases.
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(2)
(Total 10 marks)
Q3.(a) The diagram below shows a graph of V against I for a filament lamp. Calculate the
maximum resistance of the lamp over the range shown by the graph.
Page 3
Resistance .......................................................
(3)
(b) Sketch, on the axes below, a graph of current against potential difference for a
diode.

(2)
(Total 5 marks)
Q4.(a) State Ohm’s law.
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(2)
(b) A filament lamp labelled ‘12 V, 2.0 A’ has a constant resistance of 2.0 Ω for
electrical currents up to 0.50 A.
Sketch on the axes below the current-voltage graph for this lamp over the range of
voltages shown. Show clearly any calculations you made in order to answer the
question.
Page 4

(3)
(c) Sketch on the axes below the current-voltage characteristic for a semi-conductor
diode.

(3)
(Total 8 marks)
Q5. The diagram below shows the characteristic for an electronic component.
Page 5
(a) Name the component .....................................................................................

(1)
(b) Calculate the resistance of this component when the current is +0.90 A.
Resistance ..............................
(2)
(c) State one practical use for this component.
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(1)
(Total 4 marks)
Page 6

Q6. The diagram below shows the components that are to be connected in a circuit to
investigate how the current I in a filament lamp varies with the potential difference V
across it.
(a) Draw below, a circuit diagram to show how these components should be connected
to obtain voltage and current data over the full range from 0 V to the maximum
voltage available from the cell.

(2)
(b) The lamp used is rated at 1.25 V, 0.3 W. Calculate the current in the lamp when it is
working normally.
Current ......................................................
(1)
(c) Sketch on the axes below the shape of the graph of I against V that the results of
the experiment should produce.
Page 7
(1)
(Total 4 marks)
Q7. A resistance wire has a diameter 2.0 ×10 m and a resistivity of 4.5 × 10 Ω m.
–4 –7
(a) Calculate the length of this wire that has a resistance of 25 Ω.
length of wire ..........................................

(3)
(b) The resistivity of the wire increases as the current increases. Sketch, on the axes
below, the variation of current, I, with potential difference, V, across the wire for both
positive and negative potential differences.
Page 8
(2)
(Total 5 marks)
Q8.Conductive paper, sometimes called Teledeltos paper, is produced by coating one surface
of the paper with a thin layer of graphite paint. To investigate its electrical properties,
pieces of the paper can be joined to a conventional wired circuit using copper electrodes
and bulldog clips, as shown below.
It is known that the paper obeys Ohm’s Law providing the current through it does not
exceed 200 mA. The company that manufactures it estimates that under typical laboratory
conditions, the resistivity of the paint is between 1.0 × 10−5 Ωm and 5.0 × 10−5 Ωm.
Design an experiment that investigates some characteristic of the conductive paper.
You should consider the following in your answer.
• The variables you intend to measure and how to ensure that they are measured
accurately.
• The factors you will need to control and how you will do this.
• The expected outcome of the experiment that you design.
• How any difficulties in performing the experiment could be overcome.

(Total 8 marks)
Page 9
Q9.(a) Some electrical components may be described as non-ohmic.
(i) Name an example, other than a diode, of a non-ohmic electrical component.
...............................................................................................................
(ii) State how the current-voltage characteristic of your chosen component shows

that it is non-ohmic.
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(2)
(b) A semiconducting diode has special electrical properties that make it useful as an
electrical component.
(i) Sketch on the grid the current-voltage characteristic of a diode.
(ii) State, with reference to the current-voltage characteristic you have drawn, how
the resistance of the diode varies with the potential difference across its
terminals for reverse bias and for forward bias.
reverse biased:
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forward biased:
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Page 10
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(4)
(Total 6 marks)
Q10.In an attempt to investigate how the resistance of a filament lamp varies with current
through the lamp, a student obtains the results shown in the table.

voltage/V 0.50 1.50 3.00 4.50 6.00 12.00
current/A 0.51 1.25 2.00 2.55 2.95 4.00
resistance/Ω
(a) Complete the table by calculating the corresponding values of resistance.

(2)
(b) (i) On the grid below plot a graph of resistance against current for the filament
lamp.
Page 11
(ii) Use your graph to estimate the resistance of the filament lamp when no
current flows through the lamp.
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Page 12
(iii) Use your graph to determine the change in the resistance of the filament when
the current increases
from 0 to 1.0 A, .....................................................................................
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from 1.0 A to 2.0 A ...............................................................................
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(iv) Calculate the power dissipated in the lamp filament when the current through
the filament is 1.0 A and 2.0 A.
1.0 A ......................................................................................................
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2.0 A ......................................................................................................
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(8)
(c) Using information from part (b)(iv), explain why the change in resistance of the
filament is less for a current change of 0 to 1.0 A than for a current change of 1.0 A
to 2.0 A. Do not attempt any calculation.
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(2)
(Total 12 marks)
Q11.A filament lamp rated 12 V, 1.0 A has a resistance of 4.0 Ω when it carries no current.
(a) On the axes below, sketch the form of the current against voltage characteristic for
this lamp.
Page 13

(4)
(b) The filament lamp is one example of a non-ohmic device.
(i) State what is meant by the term non-ohmic.
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(ii) Name one other example of a non-ohmic device.
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(2)
(Total 6 marks)
Q12.(a) Draw, on the axes below, the current/voltage characteristic for a filament lamp.
Do not insert any values for current or voltage.
Page 14

(3)
(b) Explain why the characteristic has the shape you have drawn.
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(3)
(c) The current/voltage characteristic of a filament lamp is to be determined using a

datalogger, the data then being fed into a computer to give a visual display of the
characteristic. Draw the circuit diagram required for such an experiment and state
what is varied so as to produce a range of values.
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(5)
(Total 11 marks)
Page 15
Q13.(a) Using the axes below, sketch the characteristic of a silicon semiconductor diode for
forward bias and reverse bias.
Indicate approximate values on the voltage axis.

(4)
(b) Describe, with reference to the characteristic you have drawn, how the resistance of
the diode changes with the voltage across the diode.
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(3)
(Total 7 marks)
Q14.(a) The characteristic shown below is that of a filament lamp.
Page 16
Explain why, as the voltage is increased either positively or negatively from zero, the
characteristic has the form shown in the figure.
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(5)
(b) At a certain point on the characteristic, the power developed in the lamp is 20 W and
the current is 90 mA. Calculate the resistance of the filament at this point on the
characteristic.
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(2)
(Total 7 marks)
Page 17
Q15. Columns A and B show some of the results from an experiment in which the current
I through a component X was measured for various values of the potential difference V
applied across it.

column A column B column C column D
potential difference V / V current I/ mA (V – 0.55) / V In (I / mA)
0.70 12.5
0.75 17.0
0.80 22.0
0.85 29.0
0.90 39.0
0.95 51.5
(a) Draw a diagram of a circuit which could have been used to obtain these results.

(2)
(b) (i) Calculate the resistance of X when the potential difference is 0.70 V.
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(ii) By considering one other value of potential difference, explain whether or not
X is an ohmic conductor.
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Page 18
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(3)
(c) It is suggested that for potential differences greater than 0.55 V, the current voltage
relationship for X is of the form.
I=Ae k(V–0.55)
where A and k are constants.
(i) Complete column C and column D in the table above
(ii) Plot a graph of 1n (I /mA ) on the y-axis against (V – 0.55) on the x-axis.
(Allow one sheet of graph paper)
(iii) Use your graph to determine the constants k and A.
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(iv) On the basis of your graph, discuss the validity of the above relationship.
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Page 19
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(10)
(Total 15 marks)
Q16. (a) On the axes in Figure 1 draw I –V characteristics for two components, A and
B, both of which obey Ohm’s law. Component B has a lower resistance than
component A. Label your characteristics clearly as A and B.
Figure 1
(2)
(b) On the axes in Figure 2 draw the I – V characteristic for a silicon semiconductor
diode, giving any relevant voltage values.
Page 20
Figure 2
(3)
(c) Figure 3 shows the I – V characteristic of a filament lamp. Explain the shape of this
characteristic.
Figure 3
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(4)
(Total 9 marks)
Page 21

Q17. A student wishes to collect data so he can plot the I-V curve for a semiconductor
diode.
(a) (i) Draw a suitable diagram of the circuit that would enable the student to collect
this data.

(3)
(ii) Describe the procedure the student would follow in order to obtain an I-V curve
for the semiconductor diode.
The quality of your written communication will be assessed in this question.
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Page 22
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(6)
(b) The diagram below shows an arrangement of a semiconducting diode and two
resistors.
A 12.0 V battery is connected with its positive terminal to A and negative terminal to
B.
(i) Calculate the current in the 8.0 Ω resistor
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answer .................................. A
(2)
(ii) Calculate the current in the 4.0 Ω resistor if the p.d. across the diode, when in
forward bias, is 0.65 V expressing your answer to an appropriate number of
significant figures.
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answer ................................... A
(3)
(Total 14 marks)
Page 23
Q18. (a) A semiconducting diode is an example of a non-ohmic component. State what

is meant by a non-ohmic component.
......................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................
(1)
(b) A filament lamp is also an example of a non-ohmic component.
(i) Sketch on the axes below the current-voltage characteristic for a filament
lamp.
(2)
(ii) State, with reference to the current-voltage characteristic you have drawn, how
the resistance of the lamp changes as the pd across its terminals changes.
.............................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................
(1)
(c) A filament lamp has a power rating of 36 W when there is a pd across its terminals
of 12V.
(i) Calculate the resistance of the filament when the pd across its terminals is
12V.
Page 24

answer = ..................................... Ω
(2)
(ii) A student predicts that if the pd across the bulb is reduced to 6.0 V the power
rating of the bulb would be 9.0 W. State and explain how in practice the power
rating will be slightly different from this value.
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(3)
(Total 9 marks)
Q19. (a) Define resistance.
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(1)
(b) (i) Sketch onto the axes below a graph of the variation of current with potential
difference for a filament lamp.
Page 25
(1)
(ii) State and explain, in terms of electron flow, how the resistance of the filament
lamp changes as the current in the lamp increases.
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(3)
(Total 5 marks)
Q20.The graph shows the current–voltage (I–V) characteristics of a filament lamp.
Page 26

V / V
What is the resistance of the filament when the potential difference (pd) across it is 4.0 V?

A 500 Ω

B 1700 Ω

C 2000 Ω

D 6000 Ω
(Total 1 mark)
Page 27

M1.C
[1]
M2.(a) indication of complete circuit with correct components

must show variable resistor / pot divider / variable power supply circuit to be
complete
thermistor symbol or resistor labelled ‘thermistor’
can omit ammeter / voltmeter here
B1
voltmeter correctly placed
B1
ammeter correctly placed
B1
(3)
(b) (i) V = (6 / 1000) × 2000

C1
= 12 V
A1
(2)
(ii) correct readoff
B1
power = I × V
M1
= 0.34 × 10 * 12 = 4.1 mW [e.c.f. from I]
–3
A1
(3)
(c) decrease in resistance

B1
more charge carriers released at high temperature
B1
(2)
[10]
M3.(a) V = IR seen or used (condone = for this mark only)
Page 28
C1
I = 1.8 A and V = 12 V
C1
6.7 Ω
A1
(b) current = 0 for negative voltages (allow no mark seen on

negative voltage axis if graph drawn for positive)
B1
characteristic curve with steep rise: voltage not exceeding 1V

allow higher turn on voltages if candidates specify that they
have drawn graph for LED
B1
[5]
M4.(a) V I [allow proportional]
M1
physical condition constant
A1
2
(b) (i) Line goes through (12, 2) [within one square]
B1
Straight line at origin aimed at (1,0.5) and smooth curve

(correct shape) beyond (1,0.5)
B1
Calculation clearly supporting second mark

[V=IR, I = 0.5, so V = 1]
B1
3
(ii) Correct shape for V +ve
M1
Non-zero, positive breakaway from V-axis,

V <= 1V; line not > 1V]
A1
Zero current for reverse bias explicit
Page 29
B1
3
[8]
M5. (a) Diode or LED
B1
1
(b) Use of V/I
C1
= 1.03 OR 1.04 OR 1.0 Ω

correct numerical answer only
A1
2
(c) rectification/description such as “a.c. to d.c”

/demodulation/protection against current surges
B1
1
[4]
M6. (a) voltmeter, ammeter and lamp connected correctly to measure

V and I must include a cell
B1
cell and potentiometer correctly connected with other

components across the output terminals
B1
2
(b) 0.24 A
B1
1
Page 30
(c)
general shape
Line through origin and correct curvature clear
(condone levelling off)
B1
1
[4]
M7. (a) R = ρL/A
C1
area = 3.14 × 10 m or 12.6 × 10 or π(1 × 10 )

−8 2 −8 −4 2
or π(2 × 10 )
−4 2
A1
1.7 (1.74 or 1.75) m (not 1.8 m)
A1
3
(b) correct curvature for positive V (decreasing gradient)
B1
consistent graph for negative V through origin
B1
2
[5]
M8.planning
Page 31
(a) sensible key factor e.g. p.d. across paper, that, when varied, leads to the
determination of resistance: candidate then goes on to estimate the thickness
of the paint layer on strip [only allow direct measurement of resistance if the
investigation is of how either width or length of a rectangular strip affects the
resistance of the paper] (1)
(b) correct measuring instrument given [allow circuit diagram] (1)
(c) dimensions of paper constant when resistance measured [to see how a certain
dimension influences the resistance, width (if length varied)/length (if width
varied)] (1)
(d) check that current through paper does not exceed 200 mA (1)
(e) sensible qualitative prediction given: thickness can only be estimated due to
uncertainty in resistivity (1)
(f) thickness of layer (assuming uniform coating) in range 10–7 to 10–11 m (1)
[or (e) sensible qualitative prediction given: R ∝ l or R ∝ w–1]
(g) reasonable physics reasoning given in support: similarity with behaviour of a

metallic conductor (1)
(h) use of VlI to find R [use of repeated readings to reduce uncertainty in

measurement of dimension] (1)
Page 32
(i) calculating possible range of thickness using limiting values of resistivity /

assessing the uncertainty in result [plotting graph of results to check
relationship] (1)
(j) any other sensible measure, e.g. maintain steady temperature (1)
[max 8]
M9.(a) (i) e.g. filament lamp (1)
(ii) not a straight line

[or does not pass through origin, only if applied to
example e.g. photodiode] (1)
(2)
(b) (i)
(ii) reverse: high resistance [or constant resistance] (1)

forward: low resistance (1)
(max 4)
[6]
M10.(a) resistance / Ω 0.98 1.20 1.50 1.76 2.03 3.00 (1) (1)
[deduct one mark for each incorrect value]
2
(b) (i) sensible scales chosen (1)

points plotted correctly [deduct one mark for each mistake] (1) (1)
line of best fit (1)
Page 33
(ii) 0.90 Ω (1)
(iii) 0.22 Ω (1)
0.38 Ω (1)
(iv) 1.12 W (1)
6.0 W (1)
max 8
(c) resistance increases with increasing temperature (1)

increase in heat dissipation for 1.0 A to 2.0 A is greater than for 0 to 1.0 A (1)
and so a greater corresponding rise in temperature (1)
max 2
[12]
M11.(a)
Page 34
shape in one quadrant (1)

symmetrical (1)
(1.0, 1.2) (1)
(0, 0) (1)
slope at (0, 0) (1)
(max 4)
(b) (i) V is not directly proportional to I [or resistance is constant] (1)
(ii) e.g. semiconductor diode (1)

(2)
[6]
M12.(a)

correct curve in positive quadrant (1)
correct curve in negative quadrant (1)
passing through origin (1)
(3)
Page 35
(b) the current heats the filament (1)
(temperature rises) resistance increases (1)
pd. and current do not increase proportionally (1)
some reference to mirror image in negative quadrant (1)
The Quality of Written Communication marks were awarded primarily for the
quality of answers to this part
(max 3)
(c) diagram to show:

battery, variable resistance (or variable supply) and filament (1)
current sensor in series circuit (1)
voltage sensor across filament (1)
the two sensor boxes connected to datalogger (1)
method:
variable resistor or variable supply altered
[or choose recording interval] (1)
thus changing both V and I (1)
The Quality of Written Communication marks were awarded primarily for the
quality of answers to this part
(max 5)
[11]
M13.(a)
forward bias:
zero current rising gradually (1)
sharp increase at ≈ 0.7 V (1)
reverse bias:
zero or slightly less than zero current (1)
sharp negative increase at breakdown (1)

breakdown value >50 V indicated (1)
4
Page 36
(b) forward bias: high resistance (initially gives small current) (1)
at ≈ 0.7 V, resistance decreases rapidly (current increases) (1)
reverse bias: high resistance (gives ≈ zero or slightly negative current) (1)
at breakdown, resistance ≈ zero (and very large current) (1)
3
The Quality of Written Communication marks are awarded for the quality of
answers to this question.
[7]
M14.(a) Ohm’s law obeyed (or straight line graph) initially (1)
at a given voltage) current heats filament (to certain temperature) (1)
resistance constant at that temperature (1)
increase in voltage gives increase in current (1)
temperature of filament increases and resistance increases (1)
rate of increase of current less than if resistance was constant (1)
negative voltage and current produces same effect (1)
5
(b) P = I R (1)

2
20 = (90 × 10 ) R and R = 2.5 × 10 Ω (1) (2470 Ω)

-3 2 3
2
[7]
M15. (a) circuit diagram to show:

ammeter in series, voltmeter in parallel (1)
variable source (e.g. battery + rheostat or potential divider) (1)
2
(b) (i) R =
X = 56 Ω (1)
(ii) R = (e.g.)
X = 23 (Ω) (1)
R depends on current (or voltage)

X non-ohmic
3
Page 37
(c) (i)
col C col D
0.15 2.53
0.20 2.83
0.25 3.09
0.30 3.37
0.35 3.66
0.40 3.94
four pairs of values correct (1)

all six pairs correct and col D to no more than 4 s.f (1)
(ii) axes labelled (1)

suitable scales chosen (1)
at least five points plotted correctly (1)
acceptable straight line (1)
(iii) k = gradient (1)
gradient = = 5.7 (V ) (1)

–1
intercept on y-axis =ln A (1)
(intercept = 1.68 gives) A = e = 5.4 (mA) (1)

1.68
unit for k or A correct (1)
(iv) the points define a straight line (1)

valid over given range (1)
max 10
[15]
M16. (a)
Page 38
straight line in both quadrants,

through origin for A and B (1)
greater gradient for B (1)
2
(b)
characteristic to show:
positive current increasing slowly and then rapidly (1)
at ≈ 0.6V (1)
negative current either zero or just < zero (1)
3
(c) as voltage increases, current increases (1)

current heats filament (1)
therefore resistance increases (1)
correct argument to explain curvature(1)
mirror image in negative quadrant (1)
max 4
[9]
M17. (a) (i)
Page 39
suitable variable input (variable power supply or

variable resistor) (1)
protective resistor and diode forward biased (1)
correct current and pd measuring devices (1)

3
(ii) the mark scheme for this part of the question includes an
overall assessment for the Quality of Written Communication

QWC descriptor mark
range
good- Uses accurately appropriate grammar, spelling, punctuation 5-6

excellent and legibility.
Uses the most appropriate form and style of writing to give
an explanation or to present an argument in a well structured
piece of extended writing.
[May include bullet points and/or formulae or equations].
Answer refers to at least 5 of the relevant points listed below.
modest- Only a few errors. 3-4

adequate Some structure to answer, style acceptable, arguments or
explanations partially supported by evidence or examples.
Answer refers to at least 3 or the relevant points listed below.
poor- Several significant errors. 1-2

limited Answer lacking structure, arguments not supported by
evidence and contains limited information.
Answer refers to no more than 2 of the relevant points.
incorrect,
inappropriate No answer at all or answer refers to unrelated, incorrect or
0
or no inappropriate physics.
response
The explanation expected in a competent answer should

include a coherent selection of the following physics ideas.
Page 40
connect circuit up (1)
measure current (I) and pd/voltage (V) (1)
vary resistance/voltage (1)
obtain a range of results (1)
reverse connections to power supply (and repeat) (1)
plot a graph (of pd against current) (1)
mention of significance of 0.6V or disconnect between readings

or change range on meters when doing reverse bias (1)
(b) (i) (use of I = V/R)
I = 12/8 (1)= 1.5A (1)
(ii) I = (12 – 0.65 (1))/4 = 2.8 A (1) sig figs (1)

5
[14]
M18. (a) a non-ohmic conductor does not have a constant resistance (1)
1
(b) (i) curve of decreasing gradient with increasing V (1)
attempt to make graph symmetric in two opposite quadrants (1)

2
(ii) resistance increases as pd increases/current increases (1)

1
(c) (i) (use of P = V /R)

2
36 = 144/R (1)
R = 4.0 (Ω) (1)

2
Page 41
(ii) reference to temperature change (1)
(resulting in) a lower resistance (1)
(hence) power rating would be greater (1)

3
[9]
M19. (a) ratio of voltage (across component) to current (through

component) or R = V/I with terms defined and R as subject
B1
1
(b) (i) correct curve
B1
1
(ii) resistance increases / increase in resistivity
B1
energy transfer increases lattice vibration/ temperature rise

increases lattice vibration / electron collisions increases
lattice vibration
B1
more frequent collisions/ ions now a larger target for electrons
B1
3
[5]
M20.A
[1]
Page 42
Page 43

E2.(a) In order to collect the data, the circuit requires either a variable resistor or a variable
power supply. A substantial number of candidates ignored this point. Thermistor
symbols were poorly drawn or simply ignored. The positioning of the ammeter was
good but that of the voltmeter much worse.
(b) Most completed this successfully, but failures were often due to a misunderstanding
of the SI prefixes k and m.
(c) Many knew that the resistance of thermistor decreases with increasing temperature
(although a significant minority did not) but the reasons given were vague or
erroneous.
E3.(a) A surprisingly large number of candidates thought that the resistance was equivalent to
the gradient of the graph.
(b) Most of the candidates knew that the diode had zero current when the p.d. across it
was negative but few were able to give convincing graphs showing a steep rise in
current for p.d.s of less than 1 V. Some candidates were entirely unfamiliar with the
required graph: graphs seeming to show half wave rectification and diffraction
patterns were seen.
E4.(a) Too often candidates were content to state V = IR as a formulation of Ohm’s law.
Sometimes even the symbols were undefined. Clear statements that a named
physical condition or simply ‘physical conditions’ have to be constant were rare.
(b) There were many good graphs drawn, but also many that were discontinuous in
some way. Some candidates failed to use all the information in the question and
drew straight lines from the origin to (12,2).
(c) Despite the fact that an almost identical question appeared in June 2002, there were
very few fully correct solutions. Common errors included: failure to make clear that
there is a small current for negative p.ds; failure to show an appropriate forward p.d.
at which the diode begins to conduct; and, failure to appreciate that the current rises
very quickly when conduction has begun and the p.d. is increased further.
Page 44
E5. About half of the candidates recognised that the device is a diode but rather less than
that number were able to suggest a practical use for this component. Most (but by no
means all) candidates were able to divide a p.d. by a current to find a resistance. However
graph misreads and arithmetic errors were common.
E6. (a) A small minority of the candidates knew how to draw connections to a
potentiometer so that the full range of voltages was available. Most showed a series
resistor. More disturbing was the number who could not show how to connect an
ammeter and voltmeter so that the readings would record the current through and
potential difference across the lamp.
(b) Most were able to calculate the current.
(c) There were many correct graphs but many drew incorrect curvature or straight lines
through the origin.
E7. (a) The majority of the candidates completed this successfully. Those who did not
usually failed to determine the area of cross-section of the wire correctly.
(b) Answers to this were generally poor. Most seemed to ignore the first sentence in the
question, so a straight line graph was common. Those who realised it was a curve
often drew it the wrong way round. The majority drew graphs in the correct
quadrants.
E10.In part (a) the great majority of candidates calculated correctly the required values of
resistance and quoted their answers to three significant figures. Those candidates who
obtained incorrect values of resistance were awarded marks if they plotted their points
correctly on the graph.
In part (b)(i) almost all candidates chose acceptable scales and marked axes clearly. The
Page 45
labelling of the axes on the question paper helped candidates. With few exceptions,
candidates plotted their points clearly and correctly. About one-third of candidates
attempted to draw a straight line of best fit through their points. About one-half of such
candidates persuaded the line to pass through the origin, giving little thought to the fact
that they were suggesting that the resistance of the filament is zero when the current is
zero. Other candidates drew very poor lines of best fit through the points and lost marks
unnecessarily in parts (b)(i) and (b)(ii). In part (b)(iii) the majority of candidates were able
to calculate the required changes in resistance and quoted answers to two significant
figures. The calculations in part (b)(iv) gave weaker candidates some difficulty since some
used the wrong formula whilst others did not know the correct unit for power.
Very few candidates scored the full two marks in part (c). The question clearly asks
candidates why the change in resistance of the filament is less for a current change of 0 to
1.0 A than for a current change of 1.0 to 2.0 A. Most candidates gained one mark for
stating that the resistance of the filament increases with increasing temperature. However,
very few candidates referred to the fact that the increase in heat dissipation for 1.0 to 2.0
A is greater than for 0 to 1.0 A, leading to a greater corresponding rise in temperature.
E11.This question produced some mixed responses and a significant proportion of the
candidates did not realise that the graph in part (a) should be drawn in two quadrants.
Furthermore, many candidates sketched a graph which would have been correct with
reversed axes. It was clear that some were not aware what the V-I characteristic for a
filament lamp should look like.
Some candidates found part (b)(i) to be confusing and statements such as “a non-ohmic
conductor is one that does not follow Ohm’s law” were common. Whilst this is true, it is
really only repeating the question without answering it.
E12.The characteristic of the filament lamp presented in part (a) was usually acceptable,
although there was a smattering of answers showing the characteristic curving in the
opposite way. Several candidates offered the characteristic of a semiconductor diode and
gained no credit.
The explanation for the shape of the characteristic in part (b) was not as complete and
logical as examiners had hoped for. The majority of candidates were aware that the
Page 46
filament was non-ohmic but could not explain why the characteristic curved the way it did.
Most candidates realised that heat was generated but were vague as to what increased in
temperature and what caused it. Other candidates had the resistance of the filament
decreasing with increasing temperature in order to justify an incorrect curve.
In part (c) credit was usually gained both for the diagram and the account. Some of the
diagrams were very poor and did not show a data logger, but the most significant
omission was a variable resistor (or potentiometer) or variable power supply, in order to
vary the voltage across the filament. The general standard of the diagram and subsequent
account showed however that the majority of candidates were familiar with this type of
experiment.
E13.Many of the silicon semiconductor diode characteristics presented in part (a) were poorly
drawn and the examiners felt that although the candidate knew what the characteristic
looked like, greater attention to detail and less sloppiness in drawing would have earned
them many more marks. The main errors were in drawing the forward characteristic as a
continuous smooth curve, without a sharp increase in current at 0.6 V or 0.7 V. In many
cases the increasing current would be represented as a vertical line, whereas in practice
the slope of the curve is large, but not infinite. In the reverse mode, the current would,
very often, be shown as slightly positive, which was not accepted. Other points to note in
the reverse mode is that the change to a large current at breakdown occurs sharply and
then the curve may be drawn as a vertical line. When values of voltage were given, they
were usually correct.
Part (b) in general was not well answered. Many candidates wrote at length on how the
current varied with the voltage without once referring to the change in resistance, which
was the purpose of the question. The terminology of many candidates was confusing with
reference to ‘negative voltages in the forward mode’.
E14.Although the large majority of candidates gained marks on part (a), the examiners felt that
the basic physics which accounted for the form of the characteristic was not fully
understood and certain errors and omissions occurred regularly in the explanation. For
example, candidates knew that the filament heats up, but it was not made clear that this
was due to the current in the filament. Again, most candidates realised that the resistance
of the filament increased with increasing temperature, but very few related this increase to
the inverse of the gradient of the characteristic. A significant number of candidates
thought that the resistance equalled the gradient, not realising that the characteristic had
current on the y axis and voltage on the x axis. There were many correct references to the
rate of increase of current decreasing, but a surprising number stated that the current
decreased with increasing voltage. This last statement was felt to be a failure of
expression rather than a lack of understanding, but no marks could be awarded for such a
statement. A large number of candidates attempted to give an explanation of the increase
in resistance in terms of molecular collisions. Such accounts, although interesting, gained
Page 47
no credit since this depth of understanding is not required for this Unit by the
Specification.
The straightforward calculation in part (b) caused a great deal of trouble and the majority
of candidates only gained one mark, that being for using the correct expression for power.
Errors occurred in converting the mA to A, but the greatest error lay in the correct use of
significant figures, many candidates quoting the answer to four significant figures.
##
Although most candidates in part (a) drew an adequate circuit, usually with a variable
resistor to change the pd, some failed to draw the voltmeter in parallel with the component
X.
Part (b) worked well, with most candidates calculating the resistance correctly in both
parts (i) and (ii). However, several of these candidates were not aware of the property of
an ohmic conductor and so failed to gain full credit.
In part (c)(i) the majority of candidates gained both marks although some calculated
instead of (V – 0.55). In part (ii) many candidates gained at least three of

the possible four marks through correct labelling, plotting and drawing the line. In part (iii)
most candidates gained credit for calculating the gradient of the line and for relating the
gradient correctly to the equation, but few candidates were able to calculate the constant
A from the graph; they were usually unaware that the intercept on the y axis was ln A.
Units for k and A were usually incorrect or absent.
E16. In part (a) most candidates drew the required straight line for component A, although
a few did not bother to draw it in the negative quadrant, thereby losing a mark. The
difficulty arose in deciding whether the straight line for B should have a larger or smaller
gradient than line A. Overall about 50 % of the candidates had it correct.
The characteristic for the silicon semiconductor in part (b) was, on the whole, not well
drawn. Faults were: showing a steady increase in current, with the characteristic at about
45° without showing a rapid rise; showing the current increasing directly from (0,0) without
a slow increase section and showing the negative current at a considerable distance
below the axis. It was good however to note that when a slow increase in current was
shown, that the majority of candidates knew that the upcurving occurred at around 0.6 V.
The explanation of the filament lamp characteristic in part (c) was not done well on the
whole. Many candidates did not indicate that the current in the filament increased the
temperature of the filament, but it was known that resistance increased with temperature.
A large number of candidates, having arrived at this point in the explanation then stated
that therefore the current was less. It must be stressed that the current does not decrease,
Page 48
but that the rate of rise of current decreases. Many candidates opted for the gradient
argument and were awarded marks for a correct explanation. Few candidates made
reference to the fact that a current in the opposite direction produced the same effect, thus
creating a mirror image of the characteristic shown in the positive quadrant.
E17. The circuit diagrams drawn by candidates in part (a) (i) were generally not done well.
Many did not include a means of varying the potential difference across the diode and the
inclusion of a load resistor was rare. Less able candidates also confused the positioning of
the voltmeter. There were very few occasions where a potential divider was used even
though this is best practice for obtaining the full characteristics for the diode.
The descriptions of experimental procedure required for part (a) (ii) were generally
thorough but some did suffer from a poor structure and this had an impact on the
assessment of the Quality of Written Communication. Many candidates did not mention
anything about reverse characteristics and it was noticeable that a significant minority did
not appreciate that it was important to obtain readings with a potential difference of less
than 1.0 V.
The calculation in part (b) (i) was done well and full marks were the norm. Part (b) (ii)
proved to be not so straightforward and it was common to see candidates divide the
potential difference across the diode by the resistance of the resistor. This proved to be
one of the most discriminating questions on the paper.
E18. This question was answered well although a minority stated that non-ohmic
conductors did not follow Ohm’s Law without explaining the consequence of this. The I –V
characteristics of the filament lamp seemed to be quite familiar but some answers were
spoilt by carelessly drawn graphs that were either horizontal at the end or were not
noticeably symmetric in the two quadrants.
The calculation in part (c) was well done but the deduction required for part (c) (ii) proved
quite discriminating and only the most able candidates obtained all three marks. Many
identified why the power might be 9.0 W, but were unable to explain why, in practice, the
power rating is slightly different.
E19. Good definitions of resistance were rare. Many students attempted a description of
the causes of resistance or gave general statements such as resistance is the opposition
Page 49
to the flow of charge. In part (b)(i) many students were unable to draw a correct I–V graph
for the filament lamp with most wrong answers opting for representing the I–V relationship
as Ohmic. In some cases where the correct curve was attempted the draughtsmanship let
students down by the drawn line remaining linear for too long or plateauing or dipping at
higher values of current.
Part (b) (ii) was challenging for most students with less than 30% achieving 2 marks or
better. Of those who recognised that resistance increased many did not communicate the
idea of increased vibration providing a larger target. Instead they limited their response to
larger current led to increased collisions. Many students incorrectly stated that the
resistance would decrease and attempted an n.t.c. thermistor type answer.
Page 50

3.5.1.2 Current Voltage Characteristics

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3.5.1.2 Current Voltage Characteristics

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Colonel Frank Seely School

Exampro A-level Physics Name:

3.5.1.2 Current-voltage characteristics

The current through the battery is approximately

(i) Calculate the potential difference across the thermistor.

Potential difference = ................................................

(ii) Use the graph to calculate the power dissipated in the thermistor.

Power dissipated in thermistor = ..............................

Q4.(a) State Ohm’s law.

(a) Name the component .....................................................................................

(c) State one practical use for this component.

(a) Calculate the length of this wire that has a resistance of 25 Ω.

length of wire ..........................................

Design an experiment that investigates some characteristic of the conductive paper.

You should consider the following in your answer.

• The expected outcome of the experiment that you design.

• How any difficulties in performing the experiment could be overcome.

Q9.(a) Some electrical components may be described as non-ohmic.

(i) Name an example, other than a diode, of a non-ohmic electrical component.

(ii) State how the current-voltage characteristic of your chosen component shows

(i) Sketch on the grid the current-voltage characteristic of a diode.

current/A 0.51 1.25 2.00 2.55 2.95 4.00

(a) Complete the table by calculating the corresponding values of resistance.

from 0 to 1.0 A, .....................................................................................

from 1.0 A to 2.0 A ...............................................................................

(b) The filament lamp is one example of a non-ohmic device.

(i) State what is meant by the term non-ohmic.

(ii) Name one other example of a non-ohmic device.

(c) The current/voltage characteristic of a filament lamp is to be determined using a

Indicate approximate values on the voltage axis.

Q14.(a) The characteristic shown below is that of a filament lamp.

potential difference V / V current I/ mA (V – 0.55) / V In (I / mA)

where A and k are constants.

(i) Complete column C and column D in the table above

(Allow one sheet of graph paper)

(iii) Use your graph to determine the constants k and A.

The quality of your written communication will be assessed in this question.

(i) Calculate the current in the 8.0 Ω resistor

Q18. (a) A semiconducting diode is an example of a non-ohmic component. State what

(b) A filament lamp is also an example of a non-ohmic component.

Q19. (a) Define resistance.

Q20.The graph shows the current–voltage (I–V) characteristics of a filament lamp.

M2.(a) indication of complete circuit with correct components

(b) (i) V = (6 / 1000) × 2000

(c) decrease in resistance

M3.(a) V = IR seen or used (condone = for this mark only)

(b) current = 0 for negative voltages (allow no mark seen on

characteristic curve with steep rise: voltage not exceeding 1V

M4.(a) V I [allow proportional]

physical condition constant

(b) (i) Line goes through (12, 2) [within one square]

Straight line at origin aimed at (1,0.5) and smooth curve

Calculation clearly supporting second mark

(ii) Correct shape for V +ve

Non-zero, positive breakaway from V-axis,

Zero current for reverse bias explicit

M5. (a) Diode or LED

(b) Use of V/I

= 1.03 OR 1.04 OR 1.0 Ω

(c) rectification/description such as “a.c. to d.c”

M6. (a) voltmeter, ammeter and lamp connected correctly to measure

cell and potentiometer correctly connected with other

M7. (a) R = ρL/A

area = 3.14 × 10 m or 12.6 × 10 or π(1 × 10 )