Physics 151: Computerized Recitation #14

This recitation will make use of some applets from the set entitled Interactive Physics and Math with Java. They allow you to experiment with simple circuits by changing the values of batteries and resistors and then make measurements using voltmeters and ammeters. One typically changes the values of batteries and resistors by clicking on their top half to raise the value and their bottom half to lower the value.


Simulation 1: A Two-Resistor Circuit

A 3 Ω resistor and a 8 Ω resistor are connected in series to a 6V battery as shown to the right. Determine the current and the voltage drop for each resistor in the circuit -- what would the ammeter shown as an oval and the voltmeters shown as rectangles read?

Load Simulation into pop-up window


Simulation 2: A Four-Resistor Circuit

Four resistors are connected to a 9V battery as shown to the right. Determine the current and the voltage drop for each resistor in the circuit -- what would the ammeter shown as an oval and the voltmeters shown as rectangles read?

Load Simulation into pop-up window

Simulation 3: A Four-Resistor Circuit

Replace the 8 Ω resistor with a line and repeat all of your calculations.

There are many other applets in this series, most emphaizing Kirchoff's Rules in more complicated circuits. Links to several of these are supplied below.