Phys 104 Lab

Series & Parallel Circuits

lab contents

Series Circuits     resistorS.gif (1278 bytes)

1. Prepare a section in your notes for series circuits. Setup in your notes a data table for series circuits. Draw the circuit in your notes.

2. Connect the series circuit shown using the A resistors for both R1 and R2. Then record the following measurements into the data table.
  • Measure the current in the circuit.
    Do this by selecting one point in the circuit and break the circuit there. Place the current meter into where you broke the circuit.     Press on the switch to complete the circuit and measure the current.
  • Measure the total voltage (Vtot) across R1 and R2.
    Do this by connecting the voltmeter across both  R1 and R2. Press on the switch to complete the circuit and read this voltage.
  • Measure the voltage  (V1) across R1.
    Connect the leads of the Voltage meter across resistor R1 and measure the potential by completing the circuit with the switch.
  • Measure the voltage (V2) across R2.
    Connect the leads of the Voltage meter across resistor R2. Press on the switch to complete the circuit and read this potential.

3. Repeat the steps with an A resistor for R1 and a B resistor for R2.

4. Repeat the steps using the B resistors for both R1 and R2.