Cells & Batteries
What is the fundamental difference between a cell and a battery?
The fundamental difference between a cell and a battery is that a cell is a single unit of electricity-generating potential, while a battery is a collection of cells functioning as one unit.
What is the defining characteristic of a series circuit?
The defining characteristic of a series circuit is that there is only one path for electrons to flow.
How do you calculate the total voltage in a series circuit?
To calculate the total voltage in a series circuit, you simply add the voltages of each component: V(total) = V(1) + V(2) + V(3).
Describe the function of the anode and cathode in a cell or battery.
The anode is the negative terminal where electrons flow out of the cell, while the cathode is the positive terminal where electrons flow into the cell. The flow of electrons between the anode and cathode creates a current that powers a connected load. (remember the trick for flow of electrons with + and -)
How does a parallel circuit differ from a series circuit?
A parallel circuit differs from a series circuit in that it has two or more paths for electrons to flow.
What happens to a series circuit if one component burns out?
If one component burns out in a series circuit, the circuit becomes inactive, and current flow stops because the circuit is broken.
Explain why a stack of discs in Alessandro Volta's voltaic pile is referred to as a "pile" and not a "cell.
A stack of discs in Alessandro Volta's voltaic pile is referred to as a "pile" because it is a bunch of the same things (discs) working together to produce electricity. The term "cell" is used for a single unit of electricity-generating potential.
Why is the display of positive and negative signs sometimes not necessary when using a voltmeter?
The display of positive and negative signs is not necessary with a voltmeter because the meter will indicate the potential difference between the two points regardless of their polarity.
In a parallel circuit, how is the total resistance calculated?
The total resistance (R equivalent) in a parallel circuit is calculated using the formula:
R(eq) = (1/R(1) + 1/R(2) + 1/R(3)) to the power of -1
What is the primary characteristic that distinguishes a primary cell from a secondary cell?
The primary characteristic that distinguishes a primary cell from a secondary cell is that a primary cell can only be used once, while a secondary cell can be recharged many times
How does the number of paths for electrons to flow differ between series and parallel circuits?
In a series circuit, there is only one path for electrons to flow, whereas in a parallel circuit, there are multiple paths for electrons to flow.
Why does the total current in a parallel circuit equal the sum of the individual branch currents?
In a parallel circuit, the total current (I total) is the sum of the individual branch currents (I1 + I2 + I3) because the current has multiple paths to flow through.
How does a fuel cell generate electricity, and what sets it apart from other types of cells?
A fuel cell generates electricity through the chemical reaction of a fuel (stored outside the cell) with an oxidizing agent (usually oxygen or air). This distinguishes it from other cells that rely on stored chemicals within the cell for their operation.
Can a circuit be both series and parallel? If so, how would you describe such a circuit?
Yes, a circuit can be both series and parallel. Such a circuit is known as a combination circuit, where some components are connected in series and others in parallel.
Compare and contrast the effects of a component burning out in a series circuit versus a parallel circuit.
When a component burns out in a series circuit, the circuit becomes inactive, and current flow stops. In contrast, in a parallel circuit, if one component burns out, the current can still flow through the other branches, and the circuit remains active.