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2025 WAEC Physics Practical 3a. (i) Measure and record the e.m.f of the accumulator provided. (ii) Connect the circuit as...

Physics
WAEC 2025

3a. (i) Measure and record the e.m.f of the accumulator provided.

(ii) Connect the circuit as shown in the diagram. S is a standard resistor, and R is a resistance box.

(iii) With R = 0 Ω, close the key K. Read and record the ammeter reading I. Evaluate I\(^{-1}\).

(iv) Repeat the procedure for R = 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 Ω. Tabulate your readings.

(v) Plot a graph of R on the vertical axis and I\(^{-1}\) on the horizontal axis, starting both axes from the origin (0,0).

(vi) Determine the slope s of the graph and find the intercept c on the vertical axis.

(vii) State two precautions taken to ensure accurate results. [21 marks]

bi. State two advantages of a lead-acid accumulator over a Leclanche cell. [2 marks]

ii. A parallel combination of 3 Ω and 4 Ω resistors is connected in series with a resistor of 4 Ω and a battery of negligible internal resistance. Calculate the effective resistance in the circuit. [2 marks]

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Explanation

3a. The e.m.f of the accumulator = 1.5V

Tables of values

R(\(\Omega\)) I(A) I\(^{-1}\)((A\(^{-1}\))
0 0.78 1.28
1 0.50 2.00
2 0.38 2.63
3 0.30 3.33
4 0.25 4.00
5 0.22 4.55

 

S = \(\frac{y_2 - y_1}{x_2 - x_1}\) = \(\frac{4 - 2}{4 - 1}\) = \(\frac{2}{3}\) = 0.67

The intercept on the vertical axis = 1.32\(\Omega\)

Precautions:

(i) I ensured all electrical connections were securely tightened to prevent loose contacts, which could lead to fluctuating or inaccurate readings.

(ii) I avoided parallax error by positioning my eyes directly in line with the scale when reading the ammeter or voltmeter for precise measurements.

(iii) I checked and corrected for any zero error on the ammeter and voltmeter before taking readings to improve accuracy.

(iv) I removed the key from the circuit when not taking measurements to avoid unnecessary heating and potential damage to components.

(v) I took multiple readings at each data point and averaged the values to minimize random errors and ensure more reliable results.

(vi) I ensured the apparatus was properly calibrated and regularly checked for consistency throughout the experiment.

bi. 1. Rechargeability: A lead-acid accumulator is rechargeable, making it more suitable for long-term use, whereas a Leclanché cell is primarily a primary (non-rechargeable) cell.

2. Higher Current Supply: Lead-acid accumulators can deliver higher currents, making them ideal for applications requiring significant power, like in vehicles, while Leclanché cells are suitable for low-current devices.

3. Longer Lifespan: Due to its rechargeable nature, the lead-acid accumulator has a longer operational life compared to a Leclanché cell, which has a limited lifespan and must be replaced after depletion.

4. Stable Voltage: Lead-acid accumulators provide a relatively stable output voltage during discharge, while the voltage of a Leclanché cell drops significantly over time.

bii. Since 3 Ω and 4 Ω are connected in parallel,

\(\frac{1}{\text{R}}\) = \(\frac{1}{3}\) + \(\frac{1}{4}\)

\(\frac{1}{\text{R}}\)  = \(\frac{4 + 3}{12}\)

\(\frac{1}{\text{R}}\) = \(\frac{7}{12}\)

R = \(\frac{12}{7}\) = 1.71 Ω

Now, 1.71 Ω is connected in series with 4 Ω.

∴ The effective resistance in the circuit = 1.71 Ω + 4 Ω = 5.71 Ω


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