Setting Up Your I/V Characteristics Investigation
You'll be investigating how current and voltage relate in different circuit components using some basic equipment. Your circuit needs a battery, the component you're testing, an ammeter (measures current through the component), a voltmeter (measures potential difference across the component), and a variable resistor to change the values.
The method is straightforward: record the voltage and current readings, then adjust the variable resistor to get different values. Don't forget to reverse the battery direction halfway through - this gives you negative readings and shows the complete picture of how your component behaves.
When you plot your results for a resistor, you'll get a straight line through zero. This proves that current is directly proportional to potential difference - a key characteristic of ohmic conductors. The line stays straight even when you reverse the battery direction.
Top Tip: Keep your circuit connected for short periods only, as heating can change your resistor's behaviour and mess up your results.
