Page 235 Electricity Chap 12

CHAPTER 12
Electricity

1. ELECTRIC CURRENT AND CIRCUIT

The SI unit of potential difference is volt (V ).
It is the rate of flow of electric charge through a Potential difference between two points is said to be
conductor. It is also defined as the time ratio of flow 1 volt if a work of 1 joule is to be done to move 1
of electric charges through a conductor. coulomb of charge between these two points.
Charge flowing (Q) • For maintaining a flow of electric charge, i.e.,
Electric current, I =
Time (t) flow of current through a conductor, a potential
difference must be maintained between its ends.
The SI unit of electric current is ampere (A). The
Positive charge (or conventional current) flows
current flowing through a conductor is said to be 1
from higher potential to lower potential.
ampere, if the rate of flow of electric charge through
it is 1 coulomb per second. • A cell or a battery is used to maintain potential
difference needed for current flow in a circuit.
The direction of flow of current is taken to be the
A cell maintains a constant potential difference
direction of flow of positive charge. In other words,
between its terminals because of chemical
the direction of conventional current I is taken to
reactions taking place within the cell.
be opposite to the direction of flow of electrons. An
electric current, a scalar quantity, is measured by • Potential difference between two points is
an ammeter. An ammeter is an instrument always measured by voltmeter· A voltmeter is an
connected in series with the conducting circuit current instrument connected in parallel, across those
flowing through which is to be measured. two points of an electric circuit between which
potential difference is to be measured.
An electric circuit is a closed, continuous and
conducting path which has a source of electricity, some In circuit diagram of an electric circuit different
circuit elements or load and a switch or a key. When components of the circuit are represented by specific
the switch is ON (key is plugged), then an electric symbols.
current flows through the circuit and the circuit is
said to be a closed circuit. On the other hand, when 3. OHM’S LAW
the switch is OFF (key is unplugged), then no electric
current flows through the circuit and the circuit is According to Ohm’s law, at constant temperature, the
said to be an open circuit. potential difference (V ) across the conductor in an
electric circuit is directly proportional to the electric
current (I ) flowing through it.
2. ELECTRIC POTENTIAL AND POTENTIAL
So, V ? I or V = RI
DIFFERENCE
where R is a constant known as the resistance of the
An electric potential is the amount of work required to conductor.
more a unit from a reference point to a specific point
inside the field without producing an acceleration.
4. RESISTANCE
Potential difference between two points in an
electric circuit is the amount of work done for moving It is the property of the conductor due to which it
a unit positive charge from one point to another. If resists the flow of electric current through it. The
WAB is the work done to move + Q charge from point resistance R of a conductor is the ratio of potential
A to point B in an electric circuit, then difference V across its ends to the current I flowing
Potential difference between these two points, through it.

V = VA - VB = WAB Hence, R =V
Q I
Page 236 Electricity Chap 12

• The SI unit of resistance is ohm (W). Resistance

of a conductor is said to be 1 W , if, on applying
a potential difference of 1 V across its ends, a
current of 1 A flows through it.
• A conductor, which allows an electric current to
flow through it but offers some resistance for the
flow, is called a resistor. A resistor, which obeys
Ohm’s law, is termed as an ohmic resistor. Wires
of pure metals and their alloys are ohmic resistors.

4.1 Factors on which the resistance of a Conductor In a series combination (arrangement), the
Depends equivalent resistance is greater than even the highest
At a given temperature, the resistance of a conductor individual resistor.
is directly proportional to its length and inversely
5.2 Parallel Combination of resistors
proportional to its cross-section area, i.e., R ? l or
R ? 1 or R = r l . When two or more resistors R1, R2, R3, ... are joined
A A in parallel, potential difference V across each resistor
Where r (rho) is a constant of proportionality is exactly same as the potential difference across the
and known as the resistivity of the material of the combination.
material of the conductor. The total current passing through the parallel
Resistivity of a substance is the characteristic combination is equal to the sum of individual currents
property of its material, on which the resistance of passing through various resistors, i.e.,
a substance depends. If length, l = 1 m and area of
I = I1 + I2 + I3 + ...
cross-section A = 1 m2 , then
r 1
R = # =r
1
Thus, resistivity of the material of a conducting
substance is mathematically defined as the resistance
offered by the substance of that material having unit
length and a unit area of cross-section.
The resistance of a conductor and the resistivity
of the material of a conductor increase on increasing
its temperature.

5. COMBINATION OF RESISTANCES
There are two methods of connecting the resistors
together which are as given below.
In a parallel arrangement, the reciprocal of
5.1 Series Combination of Resistors
equivalent resistance R p is equal to the sum of
When two or more resistors R1, R2, R3, ... are joined in reciprocal of individual resistances, i.e.,
series, same current I flows through all the resistors 1 = 1 + 1 + 1 + ...
in the circuit. Rp R1 R2 R3
The total potential difference across the In a parallel arrangement, the equivalent resistance
combination is equal to the sum of potential differences is less than even the least individual resistor.
across individual resistors, i.e., Generally, parallel grouping of resistances is
V = V1 + V2 + V3 + ... preferred in our household electric circuit where all the
appliances are connected in parallel because equivalent
The equivalent resistance Rs of a series
resistance in parallel arrangement is reduced and
combination is equal to sum of individual resistances,
we can draw more current from the electric supply.
i.e.,
Each appliance will draw current as per its need and
Rs = R1 + R2 + R3 + ...
Page 237 Electricity Chap 12

separate ON or OFF switch can be used in it. OBJECTIVE QUESTIONS

6. HEATING EFFECT OF ELECTRIC CURRENT

1. When a 4 V battery is connected across an unknown
When an electric current flows through a resistive resistor, there is a current of 100 mA in the circuit.
circuit, heat is produced in the resistor. The The value of the resistance of the resister is
phenomenon involved is known as the heating effect
(a) 4 W (b) 40 W
of electric current.
If, on applying a potential difference V across the (c) 400 W (d) 0.4 W
Sol : Delhi 2020
ends of a resistor R , a current I flows in the circuit
for time t , then
Amount of heat produced in joule, 2. Assertion : A fuse wire is always connected in parallel
2
with the mainline.
H = VIt = I 2 Rt = V t Reason : If a current larger than the specified value
R
Hence, heat produced is (a) directly proportional flows through the circuit, fuse wire melts.
to the square of electric current, i.e., H ? I 2 , (b) (a) Both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason
directly proportional to resistance of a conductor, is correct explanation of the assertion.
i.e., H ? R , and (c) directly proportional to time for (b) Both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is
which current flows, 1.e., H ? t . not the correct explanation of the assertion.

6.1 Practical Applications of Heating Effect of (c) Assertion is true but Reason is false.
Electric Current (d) Assertion is false but Reason is true.
Sol : OD 2020
Heating effect of electric current is most commonly
observed in electric iron, electric toaster, electric oven,
3. The maximum resistance which can be made using
electric heater, etc.
four resistors each of resistance 12 W is :
Electric fuse and filament of electric bulb are also
(a) 2 W (b) 1 W
based on heating effect of electric current.
(c) 2.5 W (d) 8 W
Sol : OD 2020
7. ELECTRIC POWER
Power in an electric circuit is the rate at which the 4. Assertion : Alloys are commonly used in electrical
electrical energy is being dissipated in the electric heating devices like electric iron and heater.
circuit. Reason : Resistivity of an alloy is generally higher
2
So, electric power, P = VI = I 2 R = V than that of its constituent metals but the alloys have
R low melting points than their constituent metals.
The SI unit of electric power is watt. (a) Both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason
1 watt = 1 volt # 1 ampere is correct explanation of the assertion.
The electrical energy consumed in a circuit is (b) Both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is
general measure in ‘kilowatt hour’ (kWh) units. not the correct explanation of the assertion.
Energy consumed (in kW h) (c) Assertion is true but Reason is false.
Power P (in watts) # time t (in hours) (d) Assertion is false but Reason is true.
=
1000 Sol : OD 2020
6
Here, 1 kWh = 3.6 # 10 J
5. At the time of short circuit, the electric current in the
circuit :
(a) vary continuously
For solutions download NODIA app. (b) does not change
(c) reduces substantially
(d) increases heavily
Sol : Delhi 2020
Page 238 Electricity Chap 12

1. A cell, a resistor, a key and ammeter are arranged as

shown in the circuit diagrams of Figure. The current
recorded in the ammeter will be

(a) same in all the cases

(b) minimum in case (i)
(c) maximum in case (ii)
(d) maximum in case (iii)
Sol : OD 2010, Delhi 2014

3. Electrical resistivity of a given metallic wire depends

upon
(a) its length (b) its thickness
(c) its shape (d) nature of the
material
Sol : OD 2014, SQP 2014

(a) maximum in (i)

(b) maximum in (ii) 4. A current of 1 A is drawn by a filament of an electric
(c) maximum in (iii) bulb. Number of electrons passing through a cross
section of the filament in 16 seconds would be roughly
(d) the same in all the cases
Sol : Delhi 2019
(a) 1020 (b) 1016
(c) 1018 (d) 1023
Sol :
2. In the following circuits (Figure), heat produced in
the resistor or combination of resistors connected to a
12 V battery will be 5. Identify the circuit (Figure) in which the electrical
components have been properly connected.
Page 239 Electricity Chap 12

8. The proper representation of series combination of

cells (Figure) obtaining maximum potential is

(a) (i) (b) (ii)

(c) (iii) (d) (iv)
Sol :

9. Which of the following represents voltage ?

(a) Work done
Current # Time
(b) Work done # Charge

(c) Work done # Time

Current
(d) Work done # Charge # Time
Sol :

10. A cylindrical conductor of length l and uniform area of

cross-section A has resistance R . Another conductor
of length 21 and resistance R of the same material has
area of cross section
(a) A/2 (b) 3A/2
(c) 2 A (d) 3 A
Sol : OD 2020
(a) (i) (b) (ii)
(c) (iii) (d) (iv)
Sol : 11. A student carries out an experiment and plots the
V -I graph of three samples of nichrome wire with
6. What is the maximum resistance which can be made resistances R1, R2 and R3 respectively (Figure). Which
using five resistors each of 1/5 W ? of the following is true ?
(a) 1/5 W (b) 10 W
(c) 5 W (d) 1 W
Sol :

7. What is the minimum resistance which can be made

using five resistors each 1/5 W ?
(a) 1/5 W
(b) 1/25 W
(c) 1/10 W
(d) 25 W
Sol :

(a) R1 = R2 = R3 (b) R1 2 R2 2 R3
(c) R3 2 R2 2 R1 (d) R2 2 R3 2 R1
Sol :
Page 240 Electricity Chap 12

12. If the current I through a resistor is increased by (d) different potential difference across them when
100% (assume that temperature remains unchanged), connected in parallel
the increase in power dissipated will be Sol :
(a) 100% (b) 200%
(c) 300% (d) 400% 18. Two bulbs of 100 W and 40 W are connected in series.
Sol : The current through the 100 W bulb is 1 A. The
current through the 40 W bulb will be :
13. The resistivity does not change if (a) 0.4 A (b) 0.6 A
(a) the material is changed (c) 0.8 A (d) 1 A
Sol : OD 2020
(b) the temperature is changed
(c) the shape of the resistor is changed
19. Unit of electric power may also be expressed as
(d) both material and temperature are changed (a) volt ampere (b) kilowatt hour
Sol :
(c) watt second (d) joule second
Sol : OD 2020
14. In an electrical circuit three incandescent bulbs A, B
and C of rating 40 W, 60 W and 100 W respectively
20. Match the column I to column II and select the correct
are connected in parallel to an electric source. Which
answer using the codes given below:
of the following is likely to happen regarding their
brightness? Column I Column II
(a) Brightness of all the bulbs will be the same (A) Ohm (p) rL
(b) Brightness of bulb A will be the maximum A
(B) Resistance (q) 1 volt
(c) Brightness of bulb B will be more than that of A 1 ampere
(d) Brightness of bulb C will be less than that of B
Sol : (C) Resistivity (r) zero resistance
(D) Super conductor (s) ohm-meter
15. In an electrical circuit two resistors of 2 W and 4 W
respecetively are connected in series to a 6 V battery. A B C D
The heat dissipated by the 4 W resistor in 5 s will be
(a) q r p s
(a) 5 J (b) 10 J
(b) q p s, r,
(c) 20 J (d) 30 J
Sol : (c) r s, p, q
(d) r q s p
16. An electric kettle consumes 1 kW of electric power Sol :
when operated at 220 V. A fuse wire of what rating
must be used for it? 21. Match the column I to column II and select the correct
(a) 1 A (b) 2 A answer using the codes given below:
(c) 4 A (d) 5 A
Sol : OD 2014, Delhi 2012 Column I Column II
(A) Ohm’s Law (p) Direct
17. Two resistors of resistance 2 W and 4 W when proportional to
connected to a battery will have area
(a) same current flowing through them when (B) Resistivity (q) Voltage a current
connected in parallel (C) For Ohmic- (r) ch arg e
(b) same current flowing through them when conductor time
connected in series
(D) Electric current (s) V = IR
(c) same potential difference across them when
connected in series
Page 241 Electricity Chap 12

A B C D Column I Column II
(a) q, s p q, s D (B) Current (q) Depends on matter
(b) p, q q, s r q, r of conductor
(C) Resistivity (r) ch arg e
(c) p, s q r, s, t r
time
(d) p q, r r r, s
Sol : (D) Super conductor (s) Resistance
Zero

22. Match the column I to column II and select the correct

answer using the codes given below: A B C D
Column I Column II (a) p, r p r, s, r
(A) (p) Req = 1 W , (b) p q, r q s
I = 12 A (c) s, q p, s r q
(d) s, r r p, q r, s
Sol :

(B) (q) ? Length 24. For the circuit shown in the adjoining figure, match
the entries of column I with the entries of column II.

Column I Column II
(A) (p) Current
drawn from
the battery
(C) Resistance (r) Req = 1 W , is maximum
I=6A

(D) (s) 1 (B) (q) Current

?
Area drawn from
the battery
is the least

(C) (r) Bulbs will

lit the
brightest

A B C D
(D) (s) Bulbs will
(a) p p s, q r lit with
(b) p, q q, s r q, r brightness
lying
(c) p p s, q r between
(d) s, r r p, q r, s maximum
Sol : and
minimum
value
23. Match the column I to column II and select the correct
answer using the codes given below:
A B C D
Column I Column II (a) q r p, s s
(A) Ohm (p) 1 Volt/1 Amp
Page 242 Electricity Chap 12

A B C D 28. Assertion : Heater wire must have high resistance will

be melting point.
(b) p, q q, s r q, r
Reason : If resistance is high, the electric conductivity
(c) s, r r p, q r, s will be less.
(d) p p s, q r (a) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true and
Sol : reason (R) is the correct explanation of assertion
(A).
25. Assertion : The connecting wires are made of copper. (b) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true but
Reason : The electrical conductivity of copper is high. reason (R) is not the correct explanation of
assertion (A).
(a) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true and
reason (R) is the correct explanation of assertion (c) Assertion (A) is true but reason (R) is false.
(A). (d) Assertion (A) is false but reason (R) is true.
Sol :
(b) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true but
reason (R) is not the correct explanation of
assertion (A). 29. Assertion : When a battery is short-circuited, the
(c) Assertion (A) is true but reason (R) is false. terminal voltage is zero.
Reason : In the situation of a short-circuit, the current
(d) Assertion (A) is false but reason (R) is true.
Sol : is zero
(a) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true and
reason (R) is the correct explanation of assertion
26. Assertion : When the length of a wire is doubled, then
(A).
its resistance also gets doubled.
Reason : The resistance of a wire is directly (b) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true but
proportional to its length. reason (R) is not the correct explanation of
assertion (A).
(a) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true and
reason (R) is the correct explanation of assertion (c) Assertion (A) is true but reason (R) is false.
(A). (d) Assertion (A) is false but reason (R) is true.
Sol :
(b) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true but
reason (R) is not the correct explanation of
assertion (A). 30. Assertion : All electric devices shown in the circuit
(c) Assertion (A) is true but reason (R) is false. are ideal. The reading of each of ammeter (a) and
voltmeter (V) is zero.
(d) Assertion (A) is false but reason (R) is true.
Sol :

27. Assertion : The 200 W bulbs glow with more brightness

than 100 W bulbs.
Reason : A 100 W bulb has more resistance than 200
W bulb.
(a) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true and
reason (R) is the correct explanation of assertion
(A).
(b) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true but
reason (R) is not the correct explanation of Reason : An ideal voltmeter draws almost no current
assertion (A). due to very large resistance, and hence (V) and (a)
(c) Assertion (A) is true but reason (R) is false. will read zero.
(a) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true and
(d) Assertion (A) is false but reason (R) is true.
reason (R) is the correct explanation of assertion
(A).
(b) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true but
Page 243 Electricity Chap 12

reason (R) is not the correct explanation of 34. Assertion : Resistance of 50 W bulb is greater than
assertion (A). that of 100 W.
(c) Assertion (A) is true but reason (R) is false. Reason : Resistance of bulb is inversely proportional
to rated power.
(d) Assertion (A) is false but reason (R) is true.
Sol : (a) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true and
reason (R) is the correct explanation of assertion
(A).
31. Assertion : If r 1 and r 2 be the resistivity of the
materials of two resistors of resistances R1 and R2 (b) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true but
respectively and R1 > R2 . reason (R) is not the correct explanation of
assertion (A).
Reason : The resistance R = r l & r 1 > r 2 if R1 > R2
A (c) Assertion (A) is true but reason (R) is false.
(a) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true and
reason (R) is the correct explanation of assertion (d) Assertion (A) is false but reason (R) is true.
(A). Sol :

(b) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true but
reason (R) is not the correct explanation of 35. Assertion : 40 W tube light give more light in
assertion (A). comparison to 40 w bulb.
Reason : Light produced is same from same power.
(c) Assertion (A) is true but reason (R) is false.
(a) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true and
(d) Assertion (A) is false but reason (R) is true.
Sol : reason (R) is the correct explanation of assertion
(A).
(b) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true but
32. Assertion : The product of resistivity and conductivity
reason (R) is not the correct explanation of
of a conductor depends on the material of the
assertion (A).
conductor.
Reason : Because each of resistivity and conductivity (c) Assertion (A) is true but reason (R) is false.
depends on the material of the conductor. (d) Assertion (A) is false but reason (R) is true.
(a) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true and Sol :
reason (R) is the correct explanation of assertion
(A). 36. Assertion : A resistor of resistance R is connected to
(b) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true but an ideal battery. If the value of R is decreased, the
reason (R) is not the correct explanation of power dissipated in the circuit will increase.
assertion (A). Reason : The power dissipated in the circuit will
increase.
(c) Assertion (A) is true but reason (R) is false.
(a) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true and
(d) Assertion (A) is false but reason (R) is true.
Sol : reason (R) is the correct explanation of assertion
(A).
(b) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true but
33. Assertion : Long distance power transmission is done
reason (R) is not the correct explanation of
at high voltage.
assertion (A).
Reason : At high voltage supply power losses are less.
(c) Assertion (A) is true but reason (R) is false.
(a) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true and
reason (R) is the correct explanation of assertion (d) Assertion (A) is false but reason (R) is true.
(A). Sol :

(b) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true but
reason (R) is not the correct explanation of 37. Assertion : A torch bulb give light if operated on AC
assertion (A). of same voltage and current as DC.
Reason : Heating effect is common to both AC and
(c) Assertion (A) is true but reason (R) is false.
DC.
(d) Assertion (A) is false but reason (R) is true.
Sol : (a) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true and
reason (R) is the correct explanation of assertion
Page 244 Electricity Chap 12

(A). ONE MARK QUESTIONS

(b) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true but
reason (R) is not the correct explanation of
assertion (A). 41. Name the instrument used to detect the presence of a
(c) Assertion (A) is true but reason (R) is false. current in a circuit ?
Sol : SQP 2021

(d) Assertion (A) is false but reason (R) is true.

Sol :
42. What is the function of galvanometer in a circuit?
Sol : Delhi 2019

38. Assertion : A tube light emits white light.

Reason : Emission of light in a tube takes place at a 43. Write the function of voltmeter in an electric circuit.
very high temperature. Sol : OD 2019

(a) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true and
reason (R) is the correct explanation of assertion 44. Name the scientist after whom the unit of current is
(A). called ampere.
Sol : OD 2017
(b) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true but
reason (R) is not the correct explanation of
assertion (A). 45. Name the instrument used for measuring potential
difference.
(c) Assertion (A) is true but reason (R) is false. Sol : Delhi 20016, OD 2016

(d) Assertion (A) is false but reason (R) is true.

Sol : 46. What is a battery ?
Sol : Delhi 2017

39. Assertion : 40 W tube light give more light in

comparison to 40 w bulb. 47. Is potential difference a scalar quantity or a vector
Reason : Light produced is same from same power. quantity ?
Sol : Delhi 2016
(a) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true and
reason (R) is the correct explanation of assertion
(A). 48. What is an ammeter ?
Sol : OD 2017

(b) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true but
reason (R) is not the correct explanation of 49. How is an ammeter connected in a circuit to measure
assertion (A). current flowing through it ?
(c) Assertion (A) is true but reason (R) is false. Sol : Foreign 2016

(d) Assertion (A) is false but reason (R) is true.

Sol : 50. On the basis of resistance, how can you differentiate
between a conductor and an insulator ?
Sol : SQP 2017
40. Assertion : A resistor of resistance R is connected to
an ideal battery. If the value of R is decreased, the
51. If the charge on an electron be 1.6 # 10-19 C , find the
power dissipated in the circuit will increase.
approximate number of electrons in 1 C ?
Reason : The power dissipated in the circuit is directly Sol : Comp. 2016

proportional to the resistance of the circuit.

(a) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true and 52. What is a voltmeter ?
reason (R) is the correct explanation of assertion Sol : Delhi 2017

(A).
(b) Both assertion (A) and reason (R) are true but 53. List any two factors on which resistance of a conductor
reason (R) is not the correct explanation of depends.
assertion (A). Sol : SQP 2016

(c) Assertion (A) is true but reason (R) is false.

54. What is the S.I. unit of electric current ?
(d) Assertion (A) is false but reason (R) is true. Sol : Delhi 2017, OD 2015
Sol :
Page 245 Electricity Chap 12

55. How much work is done when one coulomb of charge 69. What is cell ?
Sol : Foreign 2014
moves against a potential difference of one volt ?
Sol : OD 2016

70. When is potential difference between two points said

56. Classify the following according to their resistivity : to be 1 volt ?
Sol : Foreign 2015, Delhi 2011
Insulators, metals, alloys.
Sol : Delhi 2017

71. How will you define ampere from the definition of

57. Draw a schematic diagram of a circuit consisting of current ?
Sol : Foreign 2014
a cell of 1.5 V, 10 W resistor and 15 W resistor and a
plug key all connected in series.
Sol : Delhi 2014
72. How does the resistance of a wire vary with its cross-
sectional area ?
Sol : OD 2015
58. Define the S.I. unit of potential difference.
Sol : Delhi 2017

73. How is resistance expressed ?

Sol : Delhi 2015
59. Name the device that helps to maintain a potential
difference across a conductor.
Sol : Foreign 2016
74. State Ohm’s law.
Sol : SQP 2015

60. Express mathematically the potential difference.

Sol : OD 2017
75. What is a circuit diagram ?
Sol : Comp. 2015

61. Define resistance of a conductor.

Sol : OD 2016
76. What will happen to the current flowing through a
conductor, if the potential difference is doubled ?
Sol : Delhi 2015, Delhi 2011
62. What is e.m.f. ?
Sol : Delhi 2017

77. What is the S.I. unit of resistance ?

Sol : Delhi 2014
63. Write the relation between resistance (R) of filament
of a bulb, its power (P) and constant voltage V
applied across it. 78. How does the resistance of a wire change when its
Sol : Delhi 2016, OD 2014
diameter is doubled ?
Sol : Foreign 2015

64. Which is having more resistance a 220 V, 100 W bulb

or a 220 V, 60 W bulb ? 79. The voltage-current (V -I ) graph of a metallic circuit
Sol : Foreign 2017
at two different temperatures T1 and T2 is shown,
which of the two temperatures is higher and why ?
65. Larger the cross-sectional area of a conductor of
a given material of a fixed length, the lower is its
resistance. Give reason.
Sol : SQP 2016

66. What is the better way to connect lights and other

electrical appliances in domestic wiring series circuits
or parallel circuits ?
Sol : OD 2015

67. What is electric potential difference ?

Sol : Delhi 2014

Sol : Foreign 2014

68. How many joules are equal to 1 Watt hour ?

Sol : Delhi 2015
Page 246 Electricity Chap 12

80. Does a voltmeter have a low resistance or a high coulomb from a point at 115 volts to a point at 125
resistance ? volts ?
Sol : SQP 2014 Sol : SQP 2013

81. How will the resistivity of a conductor change when 95. What are perfect conductors and perfect insulators ?
Sol : SQP 2012
its length is tripled by stretching it ?
Sol : Comp 2014

96. What is the mathematical expression for resistance ?

Sol : Comp 2013
82. Write S.I. unit of resistivity.
Sol : OD 2015

97. Which of the following has higher resistivity and why?

83. What type of resistance should an ammeter have ? Constantin or Copper.
Sol : OD 2014 Sol : SQP 2013

84. Write the relation between heat energy produced in 98. Nichrome is used to make the element of electric
a conductor when a potential difference V is applied heater. Why ?
across its terminals and a current I flows through it Sol : OD 2013

for time t .
Sol : Delhi 2015
99. What is electrical resistivity ? In a series electrical
circuit comprising a resistor made up of a metallic
85. Name the scientist after whom the S.I. unit of wire, the ammeter reads 5 A. The reading of the
resistance is named. ammeter decreases to half when the length of the wire
Sol : Delhi 2014
is doubled. Why?
Sol : Foreign 2013

86. Mention one reason why tungsten is used for making

filament of electric lamp. 100. Which pure metal has the minimum resistivity ?
Sol : Foreign 2015, OD 2013 Sol : Delhi 2012

87. What is meant by 1 ohm resistance? 101. Which alloy has the minimum resistivity ?
Sol : Foreign 2014 Sol : Foreign 2012

88. What is the relation between electrical energy and 102. Which insulator has the maximum resistivity ?
electrical power? Sol : Foreign 2013, Delhi 2011
Sol : OD 2013

103. What happens to resistance of a conductor when

89. What do we mean when we say that 1 unit of electricity temperature is increased ?
costs 2 rupees? Sol : Foreign 2012
Sol : OD 2012

104. Which of the following has more resistivity :

90. What is the conventional direction taken to represent A metal or an alloy made from the same metal ?
current ? Sol : OD 2013
Sol : Delhi 2013

105. Alloys are used in electrical heating devices rather

91. Write a smaller unit of current. than pure metals. Give one reason.
Sol : SQP 2012
Sol : Delhi 2012

92. How is water pipe analogous to an electric conductor? 106. What do we mean when we say that the resistivity of
Sol : Foreign 2013
aluminium is 2.63 # 10-8 ohm-metre ?
Sol : Delhi 2013

93. What is the S.I. unit of potential ?

Sol : Foreign 2012, Delhi 2010
107. A wire of resistivity r is pulled to double its length.
What will be its new resistivity?
94. How much work is done in moving a charge of 3 Sol : Delhi 2012
Page 247 Electricity Chap 12

108. What is the resistance of an air gap ? 121. Write a mathematical expression for Joule’s law
Sol : OD 2011
of heating. Name one device which works on this
principle.
Sol : Foreign 2010
109. Why do we use copper and aluminium wire for
transmission of electric current ?
Sol : Foreign 2012
122. In which devices heating effect of current is
undesirable?
Sol : Foreign 2011
110. What is the value of current if the resistors are
connected in series ?
Sol : OD 2011
123. Why is tungsten metal selected for making filaments
of incandescent lamp bulbs ?
Sol : Comp. 2010
111. What is the total voltage of the combination when the
resistors are in series ?
Sol : OD 2010
124. Why is heat generated in the long electric cables is
much less than in filaments of electric bulbs ?
Sol : SQP 2011
112. In incandescent lamp which energy converts into other
forms of energy ?
Sol : Delhi 2011
125. What is the S.I. unit of electric power ?
Sol : SQP 2012, OD 2008

113. Two resistors of 20 W and 40 W are connected in

parallel in an electric circuit. How does the current 126. Define watt.
Sol : OD 2011
passing through the two resistors compare ?
Sol : Delhi 2010

127. What is the relation between watt and kilowatt ?

Sol : OD 2010
114. What is the S.I. unit of electrical energy ?
Sol : Foreign 2011

128. What is the relation between electric power, potential

115. You have two metallic wires of resistances 6 ohms and difference and resistance ?
Sol : Delhi 2011
3 ohms. How will you connect these wires to get the
effective resistance of 2 ohms ?
Sol : SQP 2010
129. Why an ammeter is likely to burn out if you connect
it in parallel ?
Sol : Delhi 2010
116. How is heat produced when a current flows through
a wire ?
Sol : Comp 2011
130. Why are alloys like nichrome used in heating devices
like electric iron, toasters, etc. ?
117. What are the factors on which the heat produced in Sol : Comp 2010, Delhi 2007

a wire depends ?
Sol : OD 2010, Delhi 2010
131. When do you say that the resistance of a wire is 1 W .
or
118. At what temperature does the tungsten filament of
“The resistance of a conductor is 1 W .” What is meant
incandescent lamp (or bulb) operates ?
Sol : OD 2011 by this statement ?
Sol : Foreign 2010

119. If the current through a resistor is made three times

132. Why is it not advisable to handle high voltage
its initial value, how will the rate of heat produced
electrical circuit with wet hands?
change ? Sol : OD 2009
Sol : OD 2010

133. What is the value of equivalent resistor if three

120. What is the resistance of combination if the resistors
resistances are connected in parallel ?
are connected in series ? Sol : OD 2008
Sol : Delhi 2011
Page 248 Electricity Chap 12

134. What type of combination of resistance is used to circuit diagram to obtain such a graph.
decrease the resistance of a device ?
Sol : Delhi 2009, OD 2011

135. Name and define the SI unit of current.

Sol : Delhi 2008

136. Should the resistance of a voltmeter be low or high?

Give reason.
Sol : Foreign 2009

137. What is the voltage across each resistor when

connected in parallel ?
Sol : Foreign 2008

138. Though the same current flows through line wires or

the filament of a bulb, yet only the latter glows. Why?
Sol : Comp 2009, Delhi 2007 Sol : Delhi 2020

139. Which has higher resistance : a 50 W lamp bulb or a 145. Why does the cord of an electric oven not glow while
25 W lamp bulb and how many times ? its heating element does?
Sol : Comp 2008 Sol : OD 2019

140. Explain two disadvantages of series arrangement for 146. Suppose your parents have constructed a two room
household circuit. house and you want that in the living room there
Sol : OD 2009
should be a provision of one electric bulb, one electric
fan, a refrigerator and a plug point for appliances
141. Name the most convenient and widely used form of of power up to 2 kilowatt. Draw a circuit diagram
energy. What is the practical advantage of this form showing electric fuse and earthing as safety devices.
Sol : 2020
of energy ?
Sol : SQP 2009

147. The current flowing through a resistor connected in a

142. The potential difference between two points carrying circuit and the potential difference developed across
a current of 4 A is 220 V. What is its resistance ? its ends are as shown in the diagram by milliammeter
Sol : SQP 2008
and voltmeter readings respectively :
(a) What are the least counts of these meters?
(b) What is the resistance of the resistor?

TWO MARKS QUESTIONS

Sol : OD 2019
143. Why are the heating elements of electric toasters and
electric irons made of an alloy rather than a pure
148. Write the importance of electricity in our everyday
metal?
Sol : OD 2019, OD 2012 life.
Sol : Delhi 2017

144. A V -I graph for a nichrome wire is given below.

149. What would you suggest to a student if while
What do you infer from this graph? Draw a labelled
Page 249 Electricity Chap 12

performing an experiment he finds that the pointer/ 156. You have following material:
needle of the ammeter and voltmeter do not coincide An ammeter (0-1 A), a voltmeter (0-3 V), a resistor
with the zero marks on the scales when circuit is of 20 W , a key, a rheostat, a battery of 3 V and seven
open? No extra ammeter/voltmeter is available in the connecting wires.
laboratory. Using this material draw a labelled circuit diagram
Sol : Delhi 2019, OD 2013
to study the dependence of potential difference (V )
across a resistor on the current (I ) passing through it.
150. The current flowing through a resistor connected Sol : OD 2017

in an electrical circuit and the potential difference

developed across its ends are shown in the given 157. Calculate the number of electrons that would flow per
ammeter and voltmeter. Find the least count of the second through the cross-section of a wire when 1 A
voltmeter and ammeter. What is the voltage and the current flows in it.
current across the given resistor? Sol : Foreign 2016

158. List two distinguishing features between the resistance

and resistivity of a conductor.
Sol : Delhi 2017

159. How many 40 W, 220 V lamps can be safely connected

to a 220 V, 5A line ? Justify your answer.
Sol : Delhi 2016

Sol : Delhi 2019

160. How much will an electric iron draw from a 220 V

151. (a) State Ohm’s law. Write a mathematical expression source if the resistance of its elements when hot is 55
for it. ohms ? Calculate the wattage of the electric iron when
or it operates on 220 volts.
Sol : SQP 2017, Delhi 201
State the law that relates current through a conductor
and the potential difference between its ends.
Represent the law mathematically. 161. 400 Joules of heat is produced per second in a 16 W
resistor. Find the potential difference across the
(b) What kind of graph is obtained by plotting values
resistor.
of V and I ? why ? Sol : Foreign 2016, Delhi 2014
Sol : OD 2017

162. (i) Why are electric bulbs filled with chemically

152. State Ohm’s law ? How can it be verified experimentally?
inactive nitrogen or argon ?
Does it hold good under all conditions? Comment.
Sol : OD 2016, Delhi 2013 (ii) What is meant by the statement that the rating
of a fuse in a circuit is 5 A ?
Sol : OD 2017
153. State the factors on which the heat produced in
a current carrying conductor depends. Give one
practical application of this effect. 163. A current of 5 amperes is passed through conductor of
Sol : Delhi 2016 12 ohms for 2 minutes. Calculate the amount of heat
produced.
Sol : SQP 2016
154. Give two reasons why the nichrome alloy is used for
making the heating elements of electrical appliances.
Sol : Foreign 2017 164. V -I graph for the two wires A and B are shown in
the figure. If we connect both the wires one by one
to the same battery which of the two will produce
155. In a given ammeter, a student sees that needle
more heat per unit time ? Give justification for your
indicates 17 divisions in ammeter while performing
answer.
an experiment to verify Ohm’s law. If ammeter has 10 Sol : OD 2016
divisions between 0 and 0.5A, then what is the value
corresponding to 17 divisions?
Sol : Foreign 2016, Delhi 2011 165. Can you run an electric geyser with power rating
Page 250 Electricity Chap 12

2 kW , 220 V on a 5 A line ? Give reason to justify 175. What is the potential difference between the terminals
your answer. of a battery if 250 joules of work is required to transfer
Sol : OD 2016, Delhi 2014
25 coulombs of charge from one terminal of the battery
to the other ?
Sol : Delhi 2015, Foreign 2014
166. In the circuit diagram shown the two resistance wires
A and B are of same lengths and same material; but
A is thicker than B . Which ammeter A1 or A2 will 176. A resistance of 0.05 ohm has a current of 3 amperes
indicate higher reading for current. Give reason. flowing in it. Calculate the potential difference across
Sol : Comp 2017
its ends.
Sol : Foreign 2015

167. Give reasons for the following :

(i) What do you understand by the term fuse in an 177. What is an electric circuit ? Distinguish between an
electric circuit ? open and a closed circuit.
Sol : Delhi 2014
(ii) Fuse wire is placed in series with the device.
Sol : SQP 2015

178. How does resistance of a wire affect the flow of

168. An electric lamp is marked 220 V, 100 W. It is used current?
Sol : Comp 2013
for 5 hours daily, calculate:
(a) its resistance while glowing.
179. (a) What material is used in making the filament of
(b) energy consumed in kWh/day.
Sol : Delhi 2017, OD 2013 an electric bulb ?
(b) Name the characteristics which make it suitable
for this.
169. 40 joules of work is done in moving a charge from a Sol : SQP 2013
point at 230 volts to another point at 240 volts. Find
the quantity of the charge.
Sol : Delhi 2016 180. In an electric circuit with a resistance wire and a cell,
the current flowing is I . What would happen to this
current if the wire is replaced by another thicker wire
170. The filament of an electric lamp draws a current of
of same material and same length. Give reason.
0.5 amperes, which lights for 4 hours. Calculate the Sol : OD 2015
amount of charge that flows through the circuit.
Sol : Foreign 2017

181. In an experiment to study the relationship between

the potential difference across a resistor and the
171. Calculate the current in the wire if a charge of 1800
current through it, a student recorded the following
coulombs flows through it in 3 minutes.
Sol : Foreign 2016 observations :

Potential difference (V ) Current (A)

172. 1021 electrons, each having a charge of 1.6 # 1019 C,
pass from a point P towards another point Q in 2 0.08
0.1 s . What is the current ? What is the direction of 3 0.12
conventional current ? 4.5 0.15
Sol : OD 2015

5 0.20
173. A TV set shoots out a beam of electron. The beam 6 0.24
current is 10 mA . How many electrons strike the TV
Find in which one of the above sets of reading the
screen in each second ? How much charge strikes the
trend is different from others and must be rejected.
screen in a minute?
Sol : Delhi 2015 Calculate the mean value of resistance of the resistor
based on the remaining sets of readings.
Sol : OD 2014, OD 2012
174. The potential difference between two ends of a wire is
150 mV. The wire has a resistance of 50 W . Find the For solutions download NODIA app.
current flowing through the wire.
Sol : OD 2014, Delhi 2011
Page 251 Electricity Chap 12

182. (a) How much current will an electric bulb draw from 189. Distinguish between the term over loading and short-
a 220 V source if the bulb filament is 1200 W . circuiting as used in domestic circuits.
Sol : OD 2014
(b) How much current will an electric heater will
draw from a 220 V source if the resistance of the
heater is 100 W . 190. A piece of wire of resistance 20 W is drawn out
Sol : Delhi 2015
so that its length is increased to twice its original
length. Calculate the resistance of the wire in the new
183. A copper wire of length 2 m has a resistance situation.
Sol : Delhi 2015, Delhi 2013
of 2 # 10-2 ohm . If the resistivity of copper is
1.7 # 10-8 W m , find the area of the cross-section of
the wire. 191. A copper wire has a diameter of 0.5 mm and a
Sol : Delhi 2014
resistivity of 1.6 # 10-6 ohm-cm. How much of this
wire would be necessary to make a resistance of 10
184. The resistance of a metal wire of length 2 meters ohm ?
Sol : Delhi 2014, OD 2012
and area of cross-section 1.55 # 10-6 m2 is 0.036 W .
Calculate the resistivity of the metal.
Sol : Foreign 2015, OD 2010
192. A copper wire of length 3 m and the area of cross
section 1.7 # 10-6 m2 has a resistance of 3 # 10-2 ohms.
185. What is electrical resistivity? In a series electrical Calculate the resistivity of copper.
Sol : Foreign 2015
circuit comprising a resistor made up of a metallic
wire, the ammeter reads 5 A. The reading of the
ammeter decreases to half when the length of the wire 193. (a) What is meant by electric resistance of conductor?
is doubled. Why ? (b) A wire of length L and resistance R is stretched
Sol : OD 2015
so that the length is doubled and area of cross
section halved. How will (i) resistance change and
186. Aluminium wire has radius 0.25 mm and length of (ii) resistivity change.
Sol : Foreign 2014
75 m . If the resistance of the wire is 10 W , calculate
the resistivity of aluminium.
Sol : Foreign 2014
194. How currents in different resistors vary if they are
connected in parallel ?
Sol : OD 2013, Delhi 2010
187. The following table gives the resistivity of three
samples.
195. If five resistances each of value 0.5 ohm are connected
Samples Resistivity in series, what will be the resultant resistance ?
Sol : OD 2012
A 1.6 # 10-8 W m
B 5.2 # 10-8 W m
196. Suppose a 6 volt battery is connected across a lamp
C 100 # 10-6 W m whose resistance is 20 ohm through a variable resistor
as shown in the given Fig. If the current in the circuit
Which of them is suitable for heating elements of
is 0.25 A, find out the resistance.
electrical appliances and why ?
Sol : SQP 2015

188. The table given below gives the resistivity of three

samples (in W ):

Samples Resistivity
A 1.6 # 10-8
B 7.2 # 1017
C 44 # 10-6
Which of them is a good conductor ?
Sol : Delhi 2013
And which is an insulator ? And why ?
Sol : Comp. 2015
Page 252 Electricity Chap 12

197. How are three resistors joined in parallel ? 202. A wire is cut into three equal parts and then connected
What is the potential difference across each resistor in parallel. How will its :
joined in parallel? (a) resistance
Sol : Delhi 2012
(b) resistivity get effected ?
Sol : OD 2012, Delhi 2010

198. In the given circuit diagram suppose the resistors

R1 , R2 and R3 have the values 5 W , 10 W, 30 W 203. Calculate the current flowing through the resistors.
respectively, which have been connected to a battery
of 12 volt. Calculate

Sol : Delhi 2013

204. (a) What is the total resistance of n resistors each of

(a) the current through each resistor, resistance R connected in :
(b) the total current in the circuit and (i) Series,
(c) the total circuit resistance. (ii) Parallel.
Sol : Foreign 2013, Delhi 2011
(b) Calculate the resultant resistance of 3 resistors
3 W , 4 W and 12 W connected in parallel.
Sol : Foreign 2013
199. Three 2 W resistors A, B and C are connected as
shown in figure. Each of them dissipates energy and
can withstand a maximum power of 18 W without 205.

melting. Find the maximum current that can flow

through the three resistors.

Sol : OD 2013, OD 2011

200. Is it possible to connect the different resistors in both

combinations (i.e., series and parallel) together ? In the above circuit diagram calculate :
Draw a diagram to illustrate it. (a) the value of current through each resistor.
Sol : Foreign 2012
(b) the total current in the circuit.
(c) the total effective resistance of the circuit.
201. Draw a schematic diagram of a circuit consisting of Sol : SQP 2013

24 V battery, a 10 ohm resistor, a 5 ohm resistor,

a 1 ohm resistors, an ammeter and a plug key, all
206. Two resistors of resistances 3 W and 6 W respectively
connected in series. Calculate the ammeter reading in
are connected to a battery of 6 V so as to have :
this circuit.
Sol : Delhi 2012, OD 2009 (a) Maximum resistance,
(b) Maximum current.
For solutions download NODIA app.
(i) How will you connect the resistances in each
Page 253 Electricity Chap 12

case ? (a) Separately

(ii) Calculate the strength of the current in the (b) In series
circuit in both cases. (c) In parallel.
Sol : SQP 2012, Delhi 2010 Sol : Delhi 2012, OD 2010

207. What would be the readings of ammeter and voltmeter 211. Calculate the equivalent resistance from the following
in the given circuit ? combination of resistors.

Sol : Delhi 2013

Sol : OD 2012

212. If in figure A, R1 = 10 W , R2 = 40 W , R3 = 30 W,
208. Calculate the effective resistance between P and Q . R 4 = 20 W , R5 = 60 W and a 12 V battery are
connected to the arrangement, calculate :

Sol : Comp 2013, OD 2011

209. How would the reading of voltmeter change if it is

connected between B and C ?

(a) Total resistance in the circuit and

(b) Total current flowing in the circuit.
Sol : Delhi 2012, Delhi 2010

213. Write the applications of the heating effect of current.

Sol : Foreign 2013

214. How much work is done during the flow of current for
a given time in a wire ?
Sol : Foreign 2012
Sol : OD 2013, Delhi 2007

215. Express joules law of heating mathematically. What is

210. An electric heater connected to a 220 V line has two the resistance of 12 m wire having radius 2 # 10-4 m
resistance coils of 22 Ohms each. specific resistivity 3.14 # 10-8 Wm ?
Sol : OD 2011
Calculate the current if these coils are used
Page 254 Electricity Chap 12

216. Study the following circuit and answer the following 222. Express the electrical energy in Joules.
Sol : SQP 2011
questions :
(a) State the type of combination of the two resistors
in the circuit. 223. (a) What precaution should be taken to avoid the
(b) How much current is flowing through : overloading of domestic electric circuits ?
(i) 10 W and through, (b) An electric oven of 2 kW power rating is operated
(ii) 15 W resistors. in a domestic electric circuit (220 V), that has a
current rating 5 A. What result do you expect ?
(c) What is the ammeter reading ?
Explain.
Sol : SQP 2011, Delhi 2006

224. In a household electric circuit different appliances

are connected in parallel to one another. Give two
advantages of such connections.
Two bulbs rated 100 W, 200 V and 25 W, 200 V are
connected in parallel to a 200 V supply. What will be
the current drawn from the supply line ?
Sol : OD 2011

Sol : Foreign 2012

225. A torch bulb is rated 5.0 V and 500 mA. Calculate
(i) its power, (ii) resistance and (iii) energy consumed
217. Calculate the electrical energy consumed by a 1200 W when it is lighted for four hours.
toaster in 20 minutes. Sol : OD 2010, Delhi 2009
Sol : OD 2010, Delhi 2006

226. What is electric power ?

218. An electric bulb is marked 60 W. What does this Sol : Delhi 2011

mean. How much energy does it consume if used for

1 hour ? 227. If 0.18 ampere of current is drawn by an electric bulb
Sol : Delhi 2011
when it is connected to a source of 220 volts, find the
power of the bulb.
219. The rating of an electric heater is 1100 W; 220 V. Sol : Delhi 2010, Delhi 2008

Calculate its resistance when it operates at 220 V.

Also calculate the energy consumed in kWh in the 228. What is the commercial unit of electrical energy ?
month of November if the heater is used daily for four Sol : Foreign 2011

hours at the rated voltage.

Sol : Delhi 2010
229. An electric motor operates on a 50 V supply and draws
a current of 13A. If the motor yields a mechanical
220. (a) Electric fuse is an important component of all power of 130 W, what is the percentage efficiency of
domestic circuits. Why ? the motor ?
Sol : Foreign 2010, Delhi 2007
(b) An electric oven of rating 2 kW, 220 V is operated
in a domestic circuit with a current rating of 5 A.
What result would you expect ? Explain. 230. Two identical resistors, each of resistance 50 W are
Sol : Foreign 2011, OD 2010
connected (i) in series (ii) in parallel, in turn, to a
For solutions download NODIA app. battery of 10 V. Calculate the ratio of power consumed
in the combination of resistors in the two cases.
Sol : Comp 2011

221. An electric iron consumes energy at a rate of 840 W

when heating is at the maximum rate and 360 W
231. A wire of resistance 20 ohm is bent in the form of a
when the heating is at the minimum. The voltage is
closed circle. What is the effective resistance between
220 V. What are the current and the resistance in
the two points at the ends of any diameter of the
each case ?
Sol : Foreign 2010 circle ?
Sol : SQP 201, Delhi 2008
Page 255 Electricity Chap 12

232. Two resistors with resistances 10 W and 15 W are to be (a) Total resistance of the network of resistors
connected to emf 12 V so as to obtain : (i) minimum (b) Current through ammeter A
current (ii) maximum current. How will you connect Sol : OD 2019

the resistance in each case ? Calculate the strength of

the total current in the circuit in the two cases. 238. While studying the dependence of potential difference
Sol : OD 2010
V across a resistor on the current I passing through
it, in order to determine the resistance of the resistor,
a student took 5 readings for different values of
current and plotted a graph between V and I . He got
THREE MARKS QUESTIONS a straight line graph passing through the origin. What
does the straight line signify? Write the method of
determining resistance of the resistor using this graph.
233. (a) Write the mathematical expression for Joule’s law Sol : Comp. 2019

of heating.
(b) Compute the heat generated while transferring 239. (a) List the factors on which the resistance of a
96000 coulomb of charge in two hours through a conductor in the shape of wire depends.
potential difference of 40 V. (b) Why are metals good conductors of electricity
Sol : Delhi 2020, OD 2014
whereas glass is a bad conductor of electricity?
Give reason.
234. Two electric lamps rated 100 W, 220 V and 25 W, (c) Why are alloys commonly used in electrical
220 V are connected in parallel. Calculate the total heating devices? Give reason.
electric current in the circuit. Sol : Comp. 2018
Sol : Delhi 2011, OD 2008

240. Draw a circuit diagram of an electric circuit containing

235. Calculate the total cost of running the following a cell, a key, an ammeter, a resistor of 4W in series
electrical devices in the month of September, if the with a combination of two resistors ( 8W each) in
rate of 1 unit of electricity is ` 6.00. parallel and a voltmeter across parallel combination.
(i) Electric heater of 1000 W for 5 hours daily. Each of them dissipate maximum energy and can
(ii) Electric refrigerator of 400 W for 10 hours daily. withstand a maximum power of 16W without melting.
Sol : SQP 2018
Find the maximum current that can flow through the
three resistors.
Sol : Delhi 2018
236. (a) In a given ammeter, a student saw that needle
indicates 12th division in ammeter while
performing an experiment to verify Ohm’s law. 241. State the factors on which the resistance of a cylindrical
If ammeter has 10 divisions between 0 to 0.5 A , conductor depends. How will resistance of a conductor
then what is the ammeter reading corresponding change if it is stretched so that its length is doubled ?
Sol : OD 2017
to 12th division ?
(b) How do you connect an ammeter and a voltmeter
in an electric circuit ? 242. The values of current I flowing in a given resistor
Sol : Delhi 2019
for the corresponding values of potential difference V
across the resistor are given below:
237. In the given circuit, find :
I (ampere) 0.5 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0
V (volt) 1.6 3.4 6.7 10.2 13.2
Plot a graph between V and I and calculate the
resistance of the resistor.
Sol : 2018
Page 256 Electricity Chap 12

243. A metallic coil, connected to a 220 V supply, has a Calculate the potential difference been the terminals
resistance of 110 ohm (while hot). How long will it of a battery if 100 joules of work is required to
take for this coil to heat 1 kg of water from 20°C to transfer 20 coulombs of charge from one terminal of
70°C ? Assume that whole of the heat produced by the battery of the other.
Sol : Foreign 2016, OD 2011
the coil is taken up by water. (Specific heat of water
= 4186 J/kgcC )
Sol : OD 2016, Delhi 2008
248. For the circuit diagram given below, calculate :
(a) the value of current through each resistor.
244. State Joules law of heating. List two special (b) the total current in the circuit.
characteristics of a heating element wire.
(c) the total effective resistance of the circuit.
An electric iron consumes energy at the rate of 880
W when heating is at the maximum rate and 440 W
when the heating is at the minimum rate. The applied
voltage is 220 V. Calculate the current and resistance
in each case.
Sol : Foreign 2017

245. Study the given electric circuit and calculate :

(i) the current flowing through the 4 W resister and
(ii) potential difference across the combination of two
resistor of 8 W each.
Sol : Comp 2017

249. (a) Two conductors A and B of resistances 5 W and

10 W respectively can be arranged in parallel and
later on in series. In each arrangement, the total
voltage applied across it is 20 volts. In which
arrangement will the voltage across A and B
be the same and in which case will the current
flowing through A and B be the same ?
(b) Calculate the total resistance for each arrangement.
Sol : Delhi 2017 Sol : OD 2017

246. What would be the reading of ammeter and voltmeter

in the given circuit? 250. V -I graph for a conductor is as shown in figure.

Sol : Delhi 2016

(i) What do you infer from this graph ?
(ii) State the law expressed here
247. (a) Define the term volt.
(iii) Name the physical quantity represented by the
(b) State the relation between work, charge and slope of this graph and its unit.
potential difference for an electric circuit. Sol : SQP 2017
Page 257 Electricity Chap 12

251. State the formula co-relating the electric current (b) State Joule’s law of heating.
flowing in a conductor and the voltage applied across (c) Why we need a 5 A fuse for an electric iron which
it. Also show this relationship by drawing a graph. consumes 1 kW power at 220 V?
What would be the resistance of a conductor if the (d) Why is it impracticable to connect an electric
current flowing through it is 0.35 ampere when the bulb and an electric heater in series?
potential difference across it is 1.4 volt ? Sol : OD 2020
Sol : Foreign 2016

257. (a) Derive the relation for the equivalent resistance

252. Derive an expression for equivalent resistance when
when three resistors of resistances R1 , R2 and R3
two resistors of resistance R1 and R2 are connected
are connected in parallel.
in parallel.
Sol : Delhi 2017, OD 2011 (b) Find the minimum resistance that can be made
using four resistors, each of 20 W .
Sol : Delhi 2020, OD 2014
253. A wire of resistance 6 W is bent to form a closed
square. What is the resistance across a diagonal of
the square ? 258. (a) Define power and state its SI unit.
Sol : SQP 2017, OD 2011
(b) A torch bulb is rated 5 V and 500 mA. Calculate
its
254. A hot plate of an electric oven, connected to a 200 V (i) Power
line. It has two resistance coils A and B each of the (ii) Resistances
30 W which may be used separately, in series or in
(iii) Energy consumed when it is lighted for 2½
parallel. Find the value of the current required in each
hours.
of the three cases. Sol : OD 2020
Sol : Comp. 2016

259. (a) An electric bulb is rated at 200 V; 100 W. What

FIVE MARKS QUESTIONS is its resistance?
(b) Calculate the energy consumed by 3 such bulbs if
255. (i) Draw a labelled circuit diagram of the circuit they glow continuously for 10 hours for complete
used to show the variation of potential difference month of November.
across the ends of a resistor with current flowing (c) Calculate the total cost if the rate is 6.50 per unit.
Sol : OD 2020, Delhi 2016
through it. ff you use this circuit, what relation
would you find between the voltmeter reading, V
and the ammeter reading, I ? 260. (a) What is meant by the statement, “The resistance
(ii) A wire of given material having length l and area of a conductor is one ohm”?
of cross-section A has a resistance of 4 W . Find (b) Define electric power. Write an expression relating
the resistance of another wire of the same material electric power, potential difference and resistance.
having length l/2 and area of cross-section 2A . (c) How many 132 W resistors in parallel are required
Sol : SQP 2021
to carry 5 A on a 220 V line?
Sol : SQP 2020, OD 2014

256. For the combination of resistors shown in the 261. (a) State the relation correlating the electric current
following figure, find the equivalent resistance flowing in a conductor and the voltage applied
between M and N . across it. Also draw a graph to show this
relationship.
(b) Find the resistance of a conductor if the electric
current flowing through it is 0.35 A when the
potential difference across it is 1.4 V.
Sol : Comp. 2020

262. (i) Consider a conductor of resistance R , length L ,

thickness d and resistivity r . Now this conductor
is cut into four equal parts. What will be the new
Page 258 Electricity Chap 12

resistivity of each of these parts? Why? Sol : Delhi 2019

(ii) Find the resistance if all of these parts are

connected in: 265. In the given circuit, find :
(a) Parallel
(b) Series
(iii) Out of the combinations of resistors mentioned
above in the previous part, for a given voltage
which combination will consume more power and
why?
Sol : OD 2020

263. (a) List two disadvantages of using a series circuit in

homes.
(b) Calculate the effective resistance between A and (a) Total resistance of the network of resistors
B in the circuit given below: (b) Current through ammeter A, and
(c) Potential difference across 3 W and 6 W resistors
Sol : SQP 2019, OD 2014

266. (a) How will you infer with the help of an experiment
that the same current flows through every part
of a circuit containing three resistors in series
connected to a battery?
(b) Consider the given circuit and find the current
Sol : Delhi 2020
flowing in the circuit and potential difference
across the 15 W resistor when the circuit is closed.

264. In the circuit given below, the resistors R1 , R2 and

R3 have the values 10 W , 20 W and 30 W respectively,
which have been connected to a battery of 12 V. Sol : OD 2019

267. (a) Three resistors R1 , R2 and R3 are connected in

parallel and the combination is connected to a
battery, ammeter, voltmeter and key. Draw
suitable circuit diagram and obtain an expression
for the equivalent resistance of the combination of
the resistors.
(b) Calculate the equivalent resistance of the following
network :

Calculate
(a) the current through each resistor,
(b) the total circuit resistance, and
Sol : OD 2019, Delhi 2017
(c) the total current in the circuit.
Page 259 Electricity Chap 12

268. (a) With the help of a suitable circuit diagram prove difference (V ) and determine the resistance (R) of the
that the reciprocal of the equivalent resistance of resistor.
Sol : SQP 2018, OD 2016
a group of resistances joined in parallel is equal
to the sum of the reciprocals of the individual 273. (a) Define electric current. Write down the formula
resistances. which relates electric current, electric charge and
(b) In an electric circuit two resistors of 12 W each time.
are joined in parallel to a 6 V battery. Find the (b) An electric bulb draws a current of 0.75 A for 15
current drawn from the battery. minutes. Calculate the amount of electric charge
Sol : Comp. 2019
that flows through the circuit.
Sol : OD 2017

269. An electric lamp of resistance 20 W and a conductor 274. Define electric power. Write and define. S.I. unit of
of resistance 4 W are connected to a 6 V battery as electric power. Derive the formula for electric power.
shown in the circuit. Calculate : Sol : OD 2016

275. A household uses the following electric appliances :

(i) refrigerator of rating 400 W for 10 hours each day.
(ii) two electric fans of rating 80 W each for 6 hours
daily.
(iii) six electric tubes of rating 18 W each for 6 hours
daily.
Calculate the electricity bill for the household for
month of June, if cost of electrical energy is < 3.00
per unit.
Sol : Delhi 2016, OD 2011

(a) the total resistance of the circuit,

276. The values of current I flowing in a given resistor
(b) the current through the circuit,
for the corresponding values of potential difference V
(c) the potential difference across the (i) electric across the resistor are given below :
lamp and (ii) conductor, and
(d) power of the lamp. I (ampere) 0.5 1.0 2.0 3.0
Sol : Delhi 2019
V (Volts) 1.5 3.0 6.2 9.3

270. Show how would you join three resistors, each of (i) Plot a graph between V and I .
resistance 9 W so that the equivalent resistance of the (ii) Calculate the resistance of that resistor.
combination is (a) 13.5 W (b) 6 W ? (iii) What does the graph represent ?
Sol : Comp. 2018 Sol : Foreign 2017, Delhi 2014

271. (a) Write Joule’s law of heating. 277. (a) State Ohm’s law.
(b) Two lamps, one rated 100 W; 220 V and the other (b) Draw a circuit diagram for the verification of
60 W; 220 V, are connected in parallel to electric ohm’s law. Also plot graphically the variation of
mains supply. Find the current drawn by two current with potential difference.
bulbs from the line, if the supply voltage is 220 V. (c) Calculate the resistance of a wire, when a potential
Sol : Delhi 2018
difference of 2 V is maintained for 1 A current to
flow through it.
272. The values of current (I ) flowing through a given Sol : Comp 2017, Delhi 2014
resistor of resistance (R), for the corresponding values
of potential difference (V ) across the resistor are given
278. Describe an experiment to study the factors on which
below :
the resistance of a conducting wire depends. What is
(V ) (in volts) 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 4.0 5.0 the effect of temperature on the resistance of a given
conductor ? For a given material, which of the two
(I ) (in 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.8 1.0
wires, thick or thin (having the same length), has less
amperes)
resistance ? Why ?
Sol : Foreign 2016
Plot a graph between current (I ) and potential
Page 260 Electricity Chap 12

279. Two resistances when connected in series give resultant 283. (a) How many 330 W resistance in parallel are
value as 9 W . The same resistances connected in series required to carry 20 A on 220 V line ?
give resultant when connected in parallel give resultant (b) Name a component used to regulate current
value of 2 W . Calculate the value of each resistance. without changing the voltage source.
Sol : SQP 2016, Delhi 2008
(c) A 10 W resistance wire is doubled on it, calculate
the new resistance of wire.
280. In the following circuit diagram, find : Sol : Delhi 2016, Delhi 2013

(a) the total resistance of the circuit.

(b) the total current flowing in the circuit. 284. (a) State ohm’s law. Express it mathematically.
(c) the potential difference across resistance R1 . (b) Write symbols used in electric circuits to represent:
(i) variable resistance
(ii) voltmeter.
(c) An electric bulb is rated 220 V and 100 W. When
it is operated on 110 V, what will be the power
consumed ?
Sol : Foreign 2017

285. A piece of wire having resistance R is cut into four

equal parts.
(a) How will the resistance of each part compare with
Sol : OD 2017
the original substance ?
(b) If four parts are placed in parallel, how will the
joint resistance compare with the resistance of the
281. In the following circuit diagram, calculate the original wire.
resistance offered by the combination if the current Sol : Delhi 2017

enters at A and leaves at D .

286. A current of 1 ampere flows in a series circuit
containing an electric lamp and a conductor of 5 W
when connected to a 10 V battery. Calculate the
resistance of the electric lamp. Now, if a resistance
of 10 W is connected in parallel with this series
combination, what change (if any) in current flowing
through 5 W conductor and potential difference across
the lamp will take place ? Give reason. Draw circuit
diagram.
Sol : Delhi 2016

Sol : OD 2016, Delhi 2011

287. Find out the following in the electric circuit given in
figure :
282. (a) Resistors are given as R1 = 10 W , R2 = 20 W and (a) Effective resistance of two 8 W resistors in the
R3 = 30 W . Calculate the effective resistance when combination.
they are connected in series. Also calculate the
current flowing when the combination is connected
to a 6 V battery.
(b) Three resistors R1, R2 and R3 are connected in
series to a battery. Draw the circuit diagram
showing the arrangement. Derive an expression
for the equivalent resistance of the combination.
Sol : Comp. 2017, Delhi 2011

For solutions download NODIA app.

(b) Current flowing through 4 W resistor.
Page 261 Electricity Chap 12

(c) Potential difference across 4 W resistance. combination at rated current?

(d) Power dissipated in 4 W resistor. (ii) If we connect n bulbs each with a rated power P
(e) Difference in ammeter readings, if any. in parallel, what is the total power consumed by
Sol : SQP 2017
combination at rated voltage?
(iii) The power consumed by n equal resistance in
288. (a) Derive an expression or the equivalent resistance parallel is x times that of power consumed in
of three resistors R1, R2 and R3 connected in series, if the voltage supply is same. Find the
parallel. value of x .
(b) Fuse of 3 A, 5 A and 10 A are available. Calculate (iv) If resistors, 4 W , 5 W and 6 W are connected in
and select the fuse for operating electric iron of series with 5V battery, calculate the total power
1 kW power at 220 V line. consumed by the combination?
Sol : SQP 2016, Delhi 2011 Sol :

291. Read the following case based passage and answer the
questions given after passage.
CASE BASED QUEATIONS In household electric circuits, the mains supply is
delivered to our homes using three core cable. The
cable consists of three wires, live wire, neutral wire
289. Read the following case based passage and answer the and earth wire. The live wire is at potential difference
questions given after passage. of 220 V for the domestic supply and the potential
A room has two tube lights, a fan and a TV. Each difference between live and neutral wire is 220 volts.
tube light draws 40 W, the fan draws 80 W and the The live wire is connected to electric meter through a
TV draws 60 W on the average, the tube lights are fuse or a circuit breaker of higher rating. The neutral
kept on for five hours, the fan for twelve hours and the wire is connected directly to the electric meter.
TV for eight hours every day. The rate for electrical
energy is < 3.10 per kWh.
(i) Calculate the energy consumed by each tube light
in a day.
(ii) What is the total energy consumed in a day?
(iii) Find the cost of electricity used in this room in a
30-day month.
(iv) What quantities determines the rate at which
energy is delivered by current?
Sol :

290. Read the following case based passage and answer the
questions given after passage.
In the series combination, the resistances are joined
end to end. For a series combination of resistors,
Rs = / Ri and current through each resistor is same
but their potential difference between their ends are
different according to their resistance. When two or
more resistors are combined in such a way that their
first ends are connected to one point and the second
ends to another point. In a parallel combination of
resistors, 1 = 1 + 1 + ... and potential drop across
R p R1 R2
each resistor is same but current in different resistances
are different.
(i) If we connect n bulbs each with a rated power
P in series, what is the total power consumed by
Page 262 Electricity Chap 12

(i) What is a short circuit? 293. Read the following case based passage and answer the
(ii) How switches are connected in the circuit? questions given after passage.
(iii) What is usual current rating of the fuse wire in A D.C. generator also called a D.C. dynamo converts
the line if electric iron, geysers, room heater etc. mechanical energy into electrical energy (D.C.). It
are in use? works on the principle that when a coil rotates in a
(iv) Why is earthing of all electrical appliances uniform magnetic field, a current is induced in the
recommended? coil. The direction of induced current is determined
Sol : by Fleming’s right hand rule. The schematic diagram
of a D.C. generator is as shown in figure.
292. Study the table and answer the following questions.
The following apparatus is available in a laboratory
which is summarised in tabular form.

Battery adjustable from 0 to 4.5 V

Resistors 3 W and 6 W

Ammeters A 1 of range 0 to 3 A least count 0.1 A

A 2 of range 0 to 1 A least count
0.05 A
Voltmeters V1 of range 0 to 10 V least count
0.5 V
V2 of range 0 to 5 V least count 0.1 V
(i) The essential difference between an A.C. generator
(i) For what purpose an ammeter is used? and a D.C. generator is that :
(ii) If we require the maximum resistance from a (a) A.C. generator has an electromagnetic while
number of given resistors, we connect : a dc generator has permanent magnet.
(a) all in series. (b) D.C. generator will generate a higher voltage.
(b) all in parallel. (c) A.C. generator will generate a higher voltage.
(c) less resistors in series and more in parallel. (d) A.C. generator has slip rings while the D.C.
(d) more resistor in series and loss in parallel. generator has a commutator.
(iii) The best combination of voltmeter and ammeter (ii) What is the frequency of D.C.?
for finding the equivalent resistance of the resistors (iii) What type of dynamo is used in a bicycle?
in series would be : (iv) A D.C. motor is rotating in clockwise direction.
(a) ammeter A 1 and voltmeter V1 How can the direction of rotation be reversed?
Sol :
(b) ammeter A 1 and voltmeter V2
(c) ammeter A 2 and voltmeter V1 294. Read the following case based passage and answer the
(d) ammeter A 2 and voltmeter V2 questions given after passage.
(iv) For the experiment to find the equivalent Electrical resistivities of some substances at 20cC are
resistance of the parallel combination of the two given below :
given resistors, the best choice would be : Table-A
(a) ammeter A 1 and voltmeter V1
S. No. Metal Resistivity
(b) ammeter A 1 and voltmeter V2 (in W -m)
(c) ammeter A 2 and voltmeter V1
1. Silver 1.60 # 10-8
(d) ammeter A 2 and voltmeter V2
2. Copper 1.62 # 10-8
For solutions download NODIA app.
Sol : 3. Tungsten 5.20 # 10-8
4. Iron 10.0 # 10-8
Page 263 Electricity Chap 12

wiring of buildings, transmission lines, stationary

5. Mercury 94.0 # 10-8
machines and related equipment. Electrician may
6. Nichrome 10.0 # 10-8 be employed in the installation of new electrical
components or the maintenance and repair of existing
(i) Among silver and copper, which one is a better electrical infrastructure.
conductor? An electrician has made electric circuit of a house
(ii) Which material world you advise to be used in in such a way that if a fan is closed, the lamps also
electrical heating devices? stop glowing.
(iii) What do you mean by resistivity ? (i) What is the defect in this type of circuit wiring?
(iv) What is the effect of temperature on resistivity of Why?
a substance? (ii) Two resistances R1 and R2 are connected turn by
Sol :
turn in parallel and in series. In which case, the
resultant resistance will be less than either of the
295. Read the following case based passage and answer the individual resistances?
questions given after passage. (iii) Which is the better way to connect lights and other
Resistance of a conductor depends on the length, appliances in domestic circuit series connection or
area of cross-section and nature of the material of the parallel connection?
conductor. When a conductor is stretched (increased (iv) In which type of combination different resistors
in its length), then its area of cross-section decreases will have equal value of electric current through
accordingly but the volume (i.e. area x length) of the them?
conductor remains same. Sol :
Resistivity of conductor,
r = RA 297. Read the following case based passage and answer the
l questions given after passage.
Where, A = area of cross-section of conductor The table given below shows the resistivity of
l = length of conductor conductors and alloys.

(i) What do you mean by resistivity ? Electrical Resistivity of Some Substances at 20cC
(ii) The SI unit of resistivity is
Type of Material Resistivity (W -m)
(a) ohm ^Wh material
(b) ohm-metre (W -meter) Conductors Silver 1.60 # 10-8
2
(c) ohm -metre ( W -m)
2
Copper 1.62 # 10-8
(d) ohm-metre2 (W -m2)
Aluminium 2.63 # 10-8
Resistivity, r = RA
l Tungsten 5.20 # 10-8
2
= ohm - m = ohm - meter Nickel 6.84 # 10-8
m
(iii) Write one difference between resistance and
Iron 10.0 # 10-8
resistivity. Chromium 12.9 # 10-8
(iv) The resistance ^Rh of a wire of length is halved Mercury 94.0 # 10-8
and area of cross-section ^Ah is doubled, its new
resistance ^Rlh will be Manganese 1.84 # 10-8

(a) R (b) R Alloys Constantan 49 # 10-6

2 (Cu + Ni)
(c) R (d) R
4 8 Manganin 44 # 10-6
Sol : (Cu+Mn+Ni)
Nichrome 100 # 10-6
296. Read the following case based passage and answer the (Ni+Cr+Mn+Fe)
questions given after passage.
An electrician is a tradesman specializing in electrical
Page 264 Electricity Chap 12

Insulators Glass B?
1010 - 1014
(iii) In the following measurement of student Y .
Hard rubber 1013 - 1016 Which measurement is wrong?
(a) I = 4, V = 4 (b) I = 3, V = 6
Ebonite 1015 - 1017
(c) I = 4, V = 8 (d) None of these
Diamond 1012 - 1013
(iv) The value of resistance from the measurement of
Dry paper 12
10 student A is
(a) 2 W (b) 3 W
(i) Why tungsten is used in the bulb of the filament?
(c) 4 W (d) 1W
(ii) Which among copper and tungsten is the better Sol :
conductor?
(iii) From the above table, the most popular material
299. Read the following case based passage and answer the
used in the heater is
questions given after passage.
(a) nickel (b) copper
Two table given below study these table related to
(c) ebonite (d) nichrome equivalent resistance and answer the question that
(iv) The resistance of a copper wire of length 2m and follows.
area of cross-section 1.7 # 10-6 m2 is Table -A Combination of resistance
-2 -2
(a) 1.5 # 10 W (b) 2 # 10 W Combination Circuit Equivalent
-2
(c) 1.9 # 10 W (d) 1.6 # 10-2 W resistance
Sol :
Parallel 1 = 1 + 1
R eq R1 R2
298. Read the following case based passage and answer the
questions given after passage.
Two tables given below study these table related to Series R eq = R1 + R2
measurement of voltage and current and answer the
question that follow
Ideal measurement (Table – A)
Table -B
S.N. Voltmeter reading (mV) Ammeter reading
(mA) Student Circuit Equivalent
resistance
1. 4 2
Student A 1W
2. 6 3
3. 8 4
4. 10 5
5. 12 6
Table – B
Circuit - 1
Student S.No. Voltmeter Ammeter
reading (mV) reading (mA) Student B 1.5 W
Student–X 1. 2 1
2. 4 2
3. 6 3 Circuit - 2
Student–Y 1. 4 4
(i) Which student measured the wrong equivalent
2. 6 3
3. 8 4 resistance in Table-B?
(ii) In which configuration of resistance, the potential
(i) What is the mathematical relation between difference across each resistance remains same?
voltage and current ? (iii) The value of equivalent resistance of circuit-1 is?
(ii) Which student measurement is wrong in the table
Page 265 Electricity Chap 12

(a) 1W (b) 2 W (a) Low resistivity (b) high resistivity

(c) 0.4 W (d) 0.6 W (c) zero resistivity (d) high energy losses
(iv) In which configuration of resistance the current (iv) Alloys are commonly used in electrical heating
across each resistances remain same? devices due to
(a) Series combination (a) Low resistivity as compare to all substance
(b) Parallel combination (b) high resistivity as compare to metals
(c) Mixed combination (c) Low resistivity as compare to metals
(d) None of these (d) None of these
Sol : Sol :

300. Read the following case based passage and answer the 301. Read the following case based passage and answer the
questions given after passage. questions given after passage.
Given table provides the resistivity of conductors, Two 5 W resistances are connected in the series
alloy and insulators. Study the table and answer the combination as shown in the circuit diagram. In the
following questions. series combination of resistances, current is same in
the all resistance. So the equivalent resistance of series
Type of Material Resistivity ^W mh combinations is given by
material
R eq = R1 + R2
Conductors Silver 1.60 # 10-8
Copper 1.62 # 10-8
Aluminium 2.63 # 10-8
Tungsten 5.20 # 10-8
Nickel 6.84 # 10-8
Iron 10.0 # 10-8
Chromium 12.9 # 10-8
(i) Which type of circuit is represented in the above
Mercury 94.0 # 10-8 circuit diagram?
Manganese 1.84 # 10-6 (a) Series circuit (b) Parallel circuit
Alloys Constantan 49 # 10-6 (c) Simple circuit (d) Both (a) and (b)
(alloy of Cu and Ni) (ii) How much current is flowing through the electrical
Manganin 44 # 10 -6 circuit given above?
Sol :
(alloy of Cu, Mn
and Ni)
302. Read the following case based passage and answer the
Nichrome 100 # 10-6
questions given after passage.
(alloy of Ni, Cr,
Mn, and Fe) Heating effect is very important application of electric
current. Heating effect is used to produce light, as
Insulators Glass 1010 - 1014 in an electric bulb. Now consider current i flowing
Hard rubber 1013 - 1016 through a resistor of resistance R . Let the potential
difference across it be V . Then heat produced in time
Ebonite 1015 - 1017
t is given as
Diamond 1012 - 1013 H = Vit = i2 Rt
Paper (dry) 1012 and power consumed,
(i) Why among iron is a better conductor than P = Vi = i2 R
mercury? If two resistances are connected in series then power
(ii) Which material is the best conductor? consumed in R1 and R2 respectively are P1 = i2 R1 and
(iii) The copper and aluminium have P2 = i2 R2
Page 266 Electricity Chap 12

current in amps (A) and R = resistance in ohms (W)

There are four factors that affect the resistance of a
wire: length, area, material and temperature.
Resistance is proportional to length. If you take a
wire of different lengths and give each a particular
potential difference across its ends. The longer the
wire the less volts each centimetre of it will get.
This means that the ‘electric slope’ that makes the
i.e., Power consumed P ? R . electrons move gets less steep as the wire gets longer,
If the resistances are connected in parallel, then means current decreases with increased length and
2 2 resistance increases.
P1 = V and P2 = V
R1 R2 Resistance is inversely proportional to cross-section-
alarea. The bigger the cross-sectional area of the wire
the greater the number of electrons that experience
the ‘electric slope’ form the potential difference.
Resistance depends on the material the wire is made
of. The more tightly an atom holds on to its outermost
electrons the harder it will be to make a current flow.
Resistance increases with the temperature of the wire.
The hotter wire has a larger resistance because of
increased vibration of the atomic lattice.
R = R0 (1 + aT ), where a is the temperature
coefficient of resistance.
i.e., P ? 1 Answer following questions.
R
Answer following questions. (i) How does resistance of the metals change with
(i) Two electric bulbs B1 (100 W - 220 V) and increase in temperature?
B2 (60 W - 220 V) are connected in series to a (ii) There are two conductors X and Y of the same
power supply of 220 volts then which bulb will be material, having length L and 2L and having
brighter ? radii r and r/2 respectively. What will be the
(ii) The rating of an electric bulb is given as ratio of their resistance?
(100 W - 200 V), then what will be the resistance (iii) Two wires of equal lengths, one of copper and
of filament of the bulb ? the other of manganin have the same resistance.
(iii) An electric iron of resistance 20 ohm takes a Which wire will be thicker?
current of 5 A. Then calculate the heat developed (iv) Draw V - I graph for a metal piece at given
in 30 sec. temperature.
Sol : Sol :

303. Read the following case based passage and answer the 304. Read the following case based passage and answer the
questions given after passage. questions given after passage.
Current only flows through a component of a circuit Every electrical appliance like an electric bulb, radio
if a potential difference (voltage) is put across it. The or fan has a label or engraved plate on it which tells
bigger the potential difference across its ends the us the voltage (to be applied) and the electrical
bigger the current flow. This is because there is a power consumed by it. For example, if we look at a
steeper ‘electric slope’ in place to make the charge particular bulb in our home, it may have the figures
slide down... steeper slope-faster slide. 100 W - 220 V written on it, Now, 100 W means that
The equation below is used to work our the resistance this bulb has a power consumption of 100 watts and
of a component from measurements of the current 220 V means that it is to used on a voltage of 220
flowing through it and the potential difference across volts. The power rating of an electrical appliance tells
its ends. us the rate at which electrical energy is consumed
by the appliance. For example, a power rating of 100
V = IR watts on the bulb mean that it will consume electrical
where, V = potential difference in volts (V ), I = energy at the rate of 100 joules per second. If we
Page 267 Electricity Chap 12

know the power P and voltage V of an electrical

appliance, then we can very easily find out the current
I drawn by it. This can be done by using the formula:
P = V # I . The usual power-voltage ratings of some
of the common household electrical appliances and
the current drawn by them are given below.
Power-Voltage Ratings of Some Electrical Appliances

Electrical appliance Usual Usual

power voltage
1. Tube light 40 W 220 V Figure: An electric iron
2. Electric bulb (or Lamp) 60 W 220 V
The heating elements (or heating coils) of electrical
3. Radio set 80 W 220 V heating appliances such as electric iron and toaster,
4. Electric fan 100 W 220 V etc., are made of an alloy rather than a pure metal
because (i) the resistivity of an alloy is much higher than
5. T.V. set 120 W 220 V that of pure metal, and (ii) an alloy does not undergo
6. Refrigerator 150 W 220 V oxidation (or burn) easily even at high temperature,
7. Electric iron 750 W 220 V when it is red hot. For example, nichrome alloy is
used for making the heating elements of electrical
8. Electric heater 1000 W 220 V appliances heaters (geysers), and hair dryers, etc.,
9. Immersion heater 1500 W 220 V because:
10. Washing machine 3000 W 220 V • Nichrome has very high resistivity (due to which
the heating element made of nichrome has a high
Answer following questions. resistance and produces a lot of heat on passing
(i) What is current drawn by an electric fan? current)
(ii) An electric heater is used for 2 H at 220 V. What • Nichrome does not undergo oxidation (or burn)
is net energy consumed? easily even at high temperature. Due to this
(iii) What is resistance of electric bulb of 60 W ? nichrome wire can be kept red-hot without
(iv) What is the net current drawn by a parallel burning or breaking in air.
combination of tube light, electric bulb (or Lamp) Answer following questions.
and a radio set when connected with 220 V power (i) What is use of metals which have less resistance ?
supply. (ii) What are applications of metals which have high
Sol :
resistance ?
(iii) Nichrome alloy is used for making the heating
305. Read the following case based passage and answer the elements of electrical appliances heaters (geysers),
questions given after passage. and hair dryers, etc. Why ?
The resistivity of alloys are much more higher than (iv) Name the alloys which have very high resistivity
those of the pure metals (from which they are made). as compare to copper.
For example, the resistivity of manganin (which is an Sol :
alloy of copper, manganese and nickel) is about 25
times more than that of copper; and the resistivity 306. Read the following case based passage and answer the
of constantan (which is an alloy of copper and nickel) questions given after passage.
is about 30 times more than that of copper metal. It
We find that of all the metals, silver has the lowest
is due to their high resistivities that manganin and
resistivity (of 1.60 # 10-8 W m ), which means that
constantan alloys are used to make resistance wires (or
silver offers the least resistance to the flow of current
resistors) used in electronic appliances to reduce the
through it. Thus, silver metal is the best conductor of
current in an electrical circuit. Another alloy having a
electricity. It is obvious that we should make electric
high resistivity is nichrome. This is an alloy of nickel,
wires of silver metal. But silver is a very costly metal.
chromium, manganese and iron having a resistivity of
The resistivity of most of the metals increases with
about 60 times more than that of copper.
temperature. On the other hand, the resistivity of
insulators like ebonite, glass and diamond is very high
Page 268 Electricity Chap 12

and does not change with temperature. Wire Length Diameter Material Resistance
Semiconductors 1. Germanium 0.6 Wm B 2l d/2 Constantan R2
2. Silicon 2300 Wm C 3l d/2 Constantan R3
Insulators 1. Glass 10
10 to 10 Wm 14
D l/2 3d Copper R4
2. Paper (Dry) 1012 Wm
3. Diamond 1012 to 1013 Wm E 2l 2d Aluminum R5
4. Hard rubber 1013 to 1016 Wm F l/2 4d Copper R6
5. Ebonite 1015 to 1017 Wm
Answer the following questions using the above data:
The resistivity of semi-conductors like silicon and (i) Which of the wires has maximum resistance and
germanium is in-between those of conductors why?
and insulators and decreases on increasing the
(ii) Which of the wires has minimum resistance and
temperature. Semiconductors are proving to be of
why?
great practical importance because of their marked
(iii) Arrange R1, R3 and R5 in ascending order of their
change in conducting properties with temperature,
values. Justify your answer.
impurity, concentration, etc. Semiconductors are used
for making solar cells and transistors. (iv) Nichrome is used for making heating elements of
heaters, toasters, electric iron, etc. Why ?
Answer the following questions using the above data: Sol :
(i) How does resistivity of diamond change with
increase in temperature ?
308. Read the following case based passage and answer the
(ii) Name any two substance which have great questions given after passage.
change in conducting properties with impurity,
There are some important points regarding parallel
concentration.
and series combination of resistances
(iii) Silver is better conductor than copper but we use
• When two or more resistors are connected in
copper. Why ?
series, the total resistance of the combination is
(iv) What are practical applications of semiconductors? equal to the sum of all the individual resistances.
Sol :
• When two or more resistors are connected in series,
the same current flows through each resistor.
307. Read the following case based passage and answer the
• When a number of resistors are connected in series,
questions given after passage.
the voltage across the combination (i.e., voltage of
R = r# l the battery in the circuit), is equal to the sum of
A
the voltage drop (or potential difference) across
Some materials have low resistance, whereas some
each individual resistor.
other have much higher resistance. In general, an alloy
has higher resistance than pure metals which from the Two resistors, with resistances 5 W and 10 W
alloy. respectively are to be connected to a battery of emf
6 V . Find
Copper, silver, aluminium, etc., have very low
resistance. (i) In which resistors combination is the value of
resistance minimum ?
Nichrome, constantan, etc., have higher resistance.
Nichrome is used for making heating elements of (ii) In which resistors combination is the value of
heaters, toasters, electric iron, etc. resistance maximum ?
Read the following information: (iii) What is the minimum value of current ?
• Resistivity of copper is lower than that of (iv) What is the maximum value of current ?
Sol :
aluminium which in turn is lower than that of
constantan
• Six wires labelled as A, B, C, D, E, F have 309. Read the following case based passage and answer the
designed as per the following parameters: questions given after passage.
We have already studied that the source of electrical
Wire Length Diameter Material Resistance
energy is a battery or a cell. Potential difference
A l 2d Aluminum R1 within the two terminals of the circuit is generated
by the chemical reaction within the cells which sets
Page 269 Electricity Chap 12

the electron in motion to flow the current through a

resistor or a system of resistor connected to a battery.
The resistance wire becomes very hot and produces
heat when electric current is passed through a high
resistance wire like nichrome wire. This is called
heating effect of current. When the electric energy is
transformed into heat energy then heating effect of
current is obtained. This effect is utilized in devices
such as electric heater, electric iron, etc.
(i) Source of electric energy is
(a) Battery (b) Cell
(c) Both (a) and (b) (d) None of the above
(ii) Which metal is used for making electric heater ?
(a) Copper (b) Nichrome
(c) Aluminium (d) Nickel

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