Aim: The aim of the investigation is to find out whether or not the length of the wire affects the resistance.
Prediction: I predict that as the wire increases in length the resistance will increase, (collision of particles causing a decrease in velocity for the moving particle). I think this will happen because as the resistance increases the ions are closer together causing more collisions slowing down the velocity of the current through the wire.
Method:
1. Collect all equipment needed for experiment.
2. Set up circuit.
3. Measure out the different lengths of wire.
4. Carry out experiment with shortest piece of wire.
5. Record Amp and Volt readings
6. Repeat experiment using other lengths of wire.
7. Record Amp and Volts for each experiment.
8. Work out the resistance of each piece of wire and right in a table.
Equipment:
* Nichrome Wire
* Power Pack
* Meter Ruler
* Crocodile Clips
* Ammeter
* Voltmeter
Fair Test: To make it a fair test I will repeat the experiment three times so that I have three results for each wire length.
Experiment
Booster cables (12V, 50A, 3mm², 3.5m)
Electron energy levels in an insulatorThen I will work out the averages and record them on a graph. This is how I will make it a fair test.
Safety: The wire can heat up whilst the current is flowing through it so I have to make sure I don't touch the wire whilst the experiment is taking place.
Variables
As in any scientific experiment, there are always variables. The variable to change was the length of the wire. The variables to remain the same are the width of wire, voltage, material and the temperature of the wire.
Conclusion
As predicted, an increase in length resulted in an increased resistance. This can be clearly said for all wire lengths tested. The length of...