Name: CURRENT AND VOLTAGE IN SERIES AND PARALLEL CIRCUITS​
LAB We are examining the characteristics of current and voltage in a parallel vs series circuit. We are using the site: https://phet.colorado.edu/en/simulation/circuit­construction­kit­dc to construct and record observations in our circuits. Select the Run Now button to start the simulation. Part A: Current 1. Build the circuits one at a time without the ammeter. 2.
Add the ​
non­contact ammeter​
into the circuit at ​
each place​
shown on the circuit diagram. Record the ammeter readings and bulb brightness below. Circuit A Is the light bulb bright or dim? Ammeter Reading 1:
Ammeter Reading 2:
Circuit B Compared to circuit A, are the bulbs brighter or dimmer? Ammeter Reading 1:
Ammeter Reading 2:
Ammeter Reading 3:
Circuit C Compared to circuit B, are the bulbs brighter or dimmer? Ammeter Reading 1:
Ammeter Reading 2:
Ammeter Reading 3:
Ammeter Reading 4:
Name: Part B: Voltage 1.
Again, build the circuits one at a time. 2.
Once each circuit is working, use a ​
voltmeter​
to measure the voltage across the points shown on the circuit diagram. 3.
Record the bulb brightness and the voltmeter readings ​
below. Circuit D Is the light bulb bright or dim? Voltmeter Reading 1:
Voltmeter Reading 2:
Circuit E Compared to circuit D, are the bulbs brighter or dimmer? Voltmeter Reading 1:
Voltmeter Reading 2:
Voltmeter Reading 3:
Circuit F Compared to circuit E, are the bulbs brighter or dimmer? Voltmeter Reading 1:
Voltmeter Reading 2:
Voltmeter Reading 3:
Name: Summarize your findings below. What did you notice about the current in a series circuit? In a parallel circuit? What did you notice about voltage in a series circuit? In a parallel circuit? Circuit type Current Voltage Series Circuit (# of pathways for electrons:______) (4 marks) Parallel Circuit (# of pathways for electrons: _______) (4 Marks) How is an ammeter attached to your circuit? (1M) How is a voltmeter attached to your circuit? (1M) Do you prefer to work with online simulations or the physical equipment we have in our classroom? Why? /10 Marks