Draw a schematic diagram of a circuit consisting of a battery of three cells of 2 V each, a 5 Ω resistor, an 8 Ω resistor, and a 12 Ω resistor, and a plug key, all connected in series.
Schematic Diagram Description:
The circuit consists of a battery of three cells (each 2 V, total 6 V) connected in series, represented by three adjacent parallel lines of unequal length (long line = positive terminal, short line = negative terminal). Connected in series with the battery are: a 5 Ω resistor (zigzag line), followed by an 8 Ω resistor (zigzag line), then a 12 Ω resistor (zigzag line), and finally a plug key (a break in the circuit with a movable plug). All components are arranged in a single closed loop without any branches.
The current flows from the positive terminal of the battery through each resistor and the plug key, returning to the negative terminal of the battery. The resistors are connected end-to-end, forming one continuous path for the current.
Explanation
This question tests the student's understanding of series circuits and standard circuit symbols. The textbook context mentions that in a series combination, resistors are connected end-to-end, and the total resistance equals the sum of individual resistances. The context also references Figure 11.1 which shows a schematic diagram with proper symbols. Students must remember that a battery of cells is represented by multiple parallel lines, resistors by zigzag lines, and a plug key by a break with a plug. The key concept is that in series connection, all components form a single path for current flow.
Solution Steps
Step 1: Draw a battery symbol with three cells (three pairs of long and short parallel lines)
Step 2: Connect a 5 Ω resistor (zigzag symbol) in series with the battery
Step 3: Connect an 8 Ω resistor in series after the 5 Ω resistor
Step 4: Connect a 12 Ω resistor in series after the 8 Ω resistor
Step 5: Complete the circuit with a plug key and connect back to the battery