I-V Characteristics Lab
Compare ohmic, filament-lamp, and diode graphs with live probing so you can explain slope, resistance, and conduction direction.
Learning goals
- State resistance as potential difference divided by current
- Apply resistance equals potential difference divided by current
- Describe the effect of temperature on metallic resistance
- Sketch and interpret required current–voltage characteristics
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Lab setup
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Fair-test check
Study lensRecognize the graph shapes of an ohmic conductor, filament lamp, and diode.
Try this
Probe one point first, then explain what the overall graph shape means.
Learn to
- Recognize the graph shapes of an ohmic conductor, filament lamp, and diode.
- Use resistance = V / I at a graph point when that calculation is appropriate.
- Explain non-ohmic behavior and one-way conduction in student-friendly terms.
Exam transfer
Governing idea
An I–V graph describes how current responds to p.d. Resistance at an operating point is V/I; only an ohmic conductor at constant temperature has a straight line through the origin.
Model boundary
The lamp, diode, and thermistor curves are idealized teaching curves. Exact thresholds and shapes depend on component type and temperature.
Avoid this trap
A diode or filament lamp does not have one fixed resistance. Do not treat the gradient of a non-linear I–V curve as a universal constant.
How to explore
Sweep voltage, probe the graph, and explain what each curve says about resistance.
Predict the outcome, change one variable at a time, then interpret the result. Completion records participation only and does not award mastery.
About this activity
Compare ohmic, filament-lamp, and diode graphs with live probing so you can explain slope, resistance, and conduction direction. A text explanation and no-JavaScript route remain available.
How this activity affects progress
Course and syllabus information
- Course
- SEC G3 Physics
- Edition
- SEC G3 Physics 2027