Electricity & Magnetism: Current

Establish the difference between series and parallel in a circuit. Then investigate the relationship between the current in a circuit and the number of light bulbs that are connected in series or in parallel in the circuit.

Lab Summary:

Students will use the Voltage/Current Sensor to investigate the relationship between current, voltage, and resistance in a direct current (DC) circuit.

Download free labs:

(student versions)

Xplorer GLX-based lab (PDF, 1.8 MB)

Xplorer GLX-based lab (PDF, 1.8 MB)

Computer-based lab (PDF, 932 KB)

Method:

Use a Voltage-Current Sensor to measure that of current through a series circuit and a parallel circuit. Determine the difference between the current in each type of circuit.

Here's What You Need:

Required for Xplorer GLX-based lab:

(See lab download for computer-based lab requirements, which may differ)

Probeware

• PASPORT Voltage-Current Sensor (PS-2115)
• Xplorer GLX Graphing Datalogger (PS-2002)
  (or alternate PASPORT interface -- see other options)

Other Materials

• Light Bulb and Stand (EM-9099)
• Patch Cords, Alligator Clip (set of 10) (EM-8634)
• Battery Holder 'D' (520-059)
• Battery (4-pack) (PI-6602)

Lab Manual:

The computer-based activity is included in Explorations in Physics (PS-2810). The Xplorer GLX-based lab is included in Physics with the Xplorer GLX (PS-2826). Both manuals are complete with Teacher Information pages, student instructions and handouts, and sample data.

For your convenience, we offer bundles which provide the probeware for the activities in the manual. For more, please see:
Computer-based Physics Lab Manual and Bundles
Xplorer GLX-based Physics Lab Manual and Bundles