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Electricity exam: trivia questions quiz. Electricity is the flow of charge and is predominantly sourced from hydro and fossil fuel sources. There are different ways that one can transfer electricity or measure the strength of the current. Do you feel you have enough information about electricity to answer the challenging quiz below? The quiz below is exactly what you need. Do give it a shot and see how well you do!
Questions and Answers
1.
In a wave, the number of oscillations per second is its
A.
Voltage
B.
Spectrum
C.
Wavelength
D.
Frequency
Correct Answer
D. Frequency
Explanation Frequency refers to the number of oscillations or cycles per second in a wave. It is a fundamental characteristic of a wave and determines its pitch in sound waves or its color in light waves. The higher the frequency, the more oscillations occur in a given time period, resulting in a higher pitch or a bluer color. In this question, the correct answer is frequency because it accurately describes the number of oscillations per second in a wave.
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2.
The distance covered by one complete wave (or one complete cycle) is called
A.
Voltage
B.
Capacitance
C.
Wavelength
D.
Frequency
Correct Answer
C. Wavelength
Explanation Wavelength is the correct answer because it refers to the distance covered by one complete wave or cycle. It is a measure of the length between two corresponding points on a wave, such as from crest to crest or trough to trough. Wavelength is commonly used in physics and wave phenomena to describe the spatial extent of a wave.
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3.
Frequency is
A.
The number of oscillations per second
B.
Measured in Hertz
C.
An indicator of how rapidly current is changing
D.
All of the above
E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation Frequency is a measure of how often something occurs or repeats per unit of time. In the context of oscillations, frequency refers to the number of complete cycles or oscillations that occur in one second. This is measured in Hertz (Hz), which represents the number of cycles per second. Additionally, frequency can also be an indicator of how rapidly current is changing, as the rate at which the current alternates determines the frequency. Therefore, all of the given options - the number of oscillations per second, measured in Hertz, and an indicator of how rapidly current is changing - are correct explanations of frequency.
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4.
The unit for #times/sec is
A.
Hertz
B.
Amps
C.
Volts
D.
Ohms
Correct Answer
A. Hertz
Explanation The unit for #times/sec is Hertz. Hertz is the SI unit of frequency, representing the number of cycles or occurrences of an event per second. It is commonly used to measure the frequency of waves, such as sound waves or electromagnetic waves. Therefore, when referring to the number of times an event occurs per second, the unit used is Hertz.
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5.
A transverse wave is a wave that travels
A.
Parallel to another wave
B.
Perpendicularly to another wave
C.
Faster than another wave
D.
Slower than another wave
Correct Answer
B. Perpendicularly to another wave
Explanation A transverse wave is a type of wave that moves in a direction that is perpendicular to the direction of the wave's oscillations. In other words, the wave moves up and down or side to side while the oscillations move in a different direction. This is in contrast to a longitudinal wave, which moves in the same direction as the oscillations. Therefore, the correct answer is "perpendicularly to another wave."
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6.
Current flowing in only one direction is
A.
Unpredictable Current (UC)
B.
Alternating Current (AC)
C.
Direct Current (DC)
D.
Detectable Current (DC)
Correct Answer
C. Direct Current (DC)
Explanation Direct Current (DC) is the correct answer because it refers to the flow of electric charge in only one direction. Unlike Alternating Current (AC), which periodically reverses direction, DC remains constant in its flow. Unpredictable Current (UC) and Detectable Current (DC) are not standard terms used to describe the direction of electric current.
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7.
In the electromagnetic spectrum, which waveform has the shortest wavelength?
A.
Gamma Rays
B.
X-Rays
C.
Ultraviolet Light
D.
Infrared Light
E.
Radio Waves
Correct Answer
A. Gamma Rays
Explanation Gamma rays have the shortest wavelength in the electromagnetic spectrum. This is because gamma rays have the highest frequency and energy among all the options given. The shorter the wavelength, the higher the frequency and energy of the wave. Gamma rays are produced by nuclear reactions and radioactive decay, and they have the ability to penetrate through most materials. They are commonly used in medical imaging, cancer treatment, and sterilization processes.
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8.
In the electromagnetic spectrum, which waveform has the longest wavelength?
A.
Gamma Rays
B.
X-Rays
C.
Visible Light
D.
Microwaves
E.
Radio Waves
Correct Answer
E. Radio Waves
Explanation Radio waves have the longest wavelength in the electromagnetic spectrum. They are characterized by low frequency and low energy. These waves are used for various purposes such as communication, broadcasting, and radar systems. Due to their long wavelength, radio waves can easily pass through obstacles and travel long distances. This property makes them suitable for long-range communication.
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9.
All types of electromagnetic waves have the same frequency.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation This statement is false because different types of electromagnetic waves have different frequencies. Electromagnetic waves include a wide range of frequencies, from radio waves with low frequencies to gamma rays with high frequencies. Each type of electromagnetic wave corresponds to a specific frequency within the electromagnetic spectrum. Therefore, it is incorrect to say that all types of electromagnetic waves have the same frequency.
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10.
In electromagnetic waves, an electric wave moves perpendicularly to a magnetic wave.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation In electromagnetic waves, the electric and magnetic fields are perpendicular to each other and both are perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. This means that as the electric field oscillates in one direction, the magnetic field oscillates in a direction perpendicular to it. Therefore, the statement that an electric wave moves perpendicularly to a magnetic wave is true.
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11.
In the electromagnetic spectrum, put these waveforms in order from most rapid (highest frequency) to slowest (lowest frequency): radio waves, infrared, microwave, gamma rays, x-rays, ultraviolet light, visible light.
Correct Answer
C. Gamma, x-ray, ultraviolet, visible light, infrared, microwave, radio
Explanation The given answer is correct because it correctly arranges the waveforms in order from highest to lowest frequency. Gamma rays have the highest frequency, followed by x-rays, ultraviolet light, visible light, infrared, microwave, and radio waves, which have the lowest frequency.
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12.
Humans can see gamma rays with their eyeballs.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation Humans cannot see gamma rays with their eyeballs. Gamma rays have a very high frequency and are a form of electromagnetic radiation that is beyond the visible spectrum. Our eyes are only sensitive to a limited range of wavelengths, known as visible light. Gamma rays are typically detected and studied using specialized equipment such as gamma-ray detectors or imaging devices.
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13.
Oscillating current is called
A.
Direct Current (DC)
B.
Alternating Current (AC)
C.
Annoying Current (AC)
D.
Disorganized Current (DC
Correct Answer
B. Alternating Current (AC)
Explanation Alternating current (AC) is the correct answer because it refers to the type of current that changes direction periodically. In AC, the flow of electric charge alternates back and forth, typically at a frequency of 50 or 60 cycles per second. This type of current is commonly used in household electricity, as it allows for the efficient transmission of power over long distances. In contrast, direct current (DC) flows continuously in one direction and is commonly used in batteries and electronic devices. The options "Annoying Current" and "Disorganized Current" are not accurate terms used to describe oscillating current.
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14.
The current in our wall outlets and light sockets is
A.
AC
B.
DC
C.
60 Hz
D.
A and C
E.
B and C
Correct Answer
D. A and C
Explanation The current in our wall outlets and light sockets is AC (alternating current) and has a frequency of 60 Hz. AC is used for transmitting electricity over long distances and is preferred for household use due to its ability to easily change voltage levels using transformers. The 60 Hz frequency means that the direction of the current changes 60 times per second, allowing for efficient power distribution. Therefore, the correct answer is A and C.
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15.
A capacitor is a circuit component that consists of two parallel plates of charge.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation A capacitor is a circuit component that consists of two parallel plates of charge. This statement is true because a capacitor is designed to store electrical energy in an electric field between two conducting plates. The plates are separated by an insulating material called a dielectric, which prevents the flow of current between the plates. When a voltage is applied across the plates, one plate accumulates positive charge while the other accumulates negative charge, creating an electric field between them. This allows the capacitor to store and release electrical energy when needed in a circuit.
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16.
When is this equation used?
REQ = R1 + R2
A.
When two resistors are connected in parallel
B.
When two resistors are connected in series
C.
When two batteries are connected in parallel
D.
When two capacitors are connected in series
Correct Answer
B. When two resistors are connected in series
Explanation This equation is used when two resistors are connected in series. In a series circuit, the total resistance is equal to the sum of the individual resistances. Therefore, the equation REQ = R1 + R2 is used to calculate the total resistance in a series circuit when two resistors are connected in series.
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17.
When is this equation used?
1/REQ = 1/R1 + 1/R2
A.
When two resistors are connected in parallel
B.
When two resistors are connected in series
C.
When two batteries are connected in parallel
D.
When two capacitors are connected in series
Correct Answer
A. When two resistors are connected in parallel
Explanation This equation is used when two resistors are connected in parallel. In a parallel circuit, the total resistance is calculated by taking the reciprocal of each individual resistance and adding them together. This equation represents the relationship between the total resistance (1/REQ) and the individual resistances (1/R1 and 1/R2) in a parallel circuit.
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18.
In this circuit diagram, where will most of the current flow and why?
A.
It will flow through the 2 Ohm resistor because it follows the path of least resistance.
B.
It will flow through the 10 Ohm resistor because it follows the first path it reaches.
C.
It will flow through the 50 Ohm reisitor because it follows the path of greatest resistance.
Correct Answer
A. It will flow through the 2 Ohm resistor because it follows the path of least resistance.
Explanation The current in a circuit tends to follow the path of least resistance. In this circuit, the 2 Ohm resistor has the least resistance compared to the other resistors (10 Ohm and 50 Ohm). Therefore, most of the current will flow through the 2 Ohm resistor as it provides an easier path for the current to pass through.
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19.
Find REQ for this circuit.
A.
50/3 Ohms
B.
3/50 Ohms
C.
120 Ohms
D.
1/120 Ohms
Correct Answer
A. 50/3 Ohms
Explanation The REQ (equivalent resistance) for this circuit can be found by simplifying the circuit into a single resistor that would have the same effect as the original circuit. In this case, the REQ is equal to 50/3 Ohms.
Calculate the current (I) in this circuit if the battery is 1.5 Volts.
A.
4,333 Amps
B.
4.333 Amps
C.
230 Amps
D.
0.23 Amps
Correct Answer
C. 230 Amps
22.
What are these?
A.
Resistors
B.
Capacitors
C.
Batteries
D.
Lightbulbs
E.
Transformers
Correct Answer
A. Resistors
Explanation These are common electrical components used in circuits to control the flow of electric current. Resistors are designed to resist the flow of current, while capacitors store and release electrical energy. Batteries provide a source of electrical power, lightbulbs convert electrical energy into light, and transformers are used to change the voltage of an electrical signal.
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23.
What do the stripes indicate?
A.
Amount of voltage
B.
Amount of current
C.
Amount of resistance
D.
Amount of energy
E.
Amount of power
Correct Answer
C. Amount of resistance
Explanation The stripes on a component, such as a resistor, indicate the amount of resistance. Resistance is a measure of how much a component restricts the flow of electric current. The stripes are color-coded and each color represents a different value. By reading the colors on the stripes, one can determine the specific amount of resistance the component has.
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24.
What is the unit for voltage?
A.
Ampere
B.
Joule
C.
Volt
D.
Hertz
E.
Ohm
Correct Answer
C. Volt
Explanation Voltage is a measure of the electric potential difference between two points in an electrical circuit. It represents the amount of potential energy per unit charge. The unit for voltage is the volt, which is symbolized by the letter V. Therefore, the correct answer is Volt.
Explanation Ohm's Law states that the voltage (V) across a conductor is directly proportional to the current (I) flowing through it, and inversely proportional to the resistance (R) of the conductor. This can be mathematically represented by the equation V = IR, where V is the voltage, I is the current, and R is the resistance.
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28.
What is the unit for energy?
A.
Ampere
B.
Joule
C.
Hertz
D.
Volts
E.
Ohms
Correct Answer
B. Joule
Explanation The unit for energy is the joule. Energy is a measure of the ability to do work or cause a change. The joule is a derived unit in the International System of Units (SI), and it is defined as the amount of energy transferred when a force of one newton acts on an object to move it one meter in the direction of the force. It is commonly used to measure various forms of energy, such as mechanical, electrical, and thermal energy.
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29.
Voltage is a measurement of what?
A.
Radiant energy of a lightbulb in a circuit
B.
Kinectic energy of a motor in a circuit
C.
Potential energy stored in a battery
D.
The flow of electrons
Correct Answer
C. Potential energy stored in a battery
Explanation Voltage is a measurement of potential energy stored in a battery. Voltage represents the amount of electric potential energy per unit charge available in a circuit. In the case of a battery, it stores potential energy that can be converted into electrical energy to power devices.
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30.
What is current?
A.
The newness of a battery or resistor
B.
Flow of charge, usually in the form of electrons
C.
Something that blocks or slows the flow of electrons
D.
The potential energy stored in a battery
Correct Answer
B. Flow of charge, usually in the form of electrons
Explanation Current refers to the flow of electric charge, typically in the form of electrons, through a conductor. It is the movement of these charged particles that creates the flow of electricity in a circuit. The other options mentioned in the question, such as the newness of a battery or resistor, something that blocks or slows the flow of electrons, and the potential energy stored in a battery, are not accurate definitions of current.
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31.
In this graph, what does the slope reprent? (Hint: think about Ohm's Law)
A.
Constant voltage
B.
Constant current
C.
Constant energy
D.
Constant resistance
Correct Answer
D. Constant resistance
Explanation The slope in this graph represents constant resistance. In Ohm's Law, resistance is defined as the ratio of voltage to current. If the resistance is constant, then the ratio of voltage to current will remain the same regardless of the values of voltage and current. This means that the graph will have a constant slope, indicating a constant resistance.
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32.
A typical size-AA battery holds how many volts?
A.
15 V
B.
300 V
C.
1.5 V
D.
3 V
Correct Answer
C. 1.5 V
Explanation A typical size-AA battery holds 1.5 volts. This is the standard voltage for AA batteries and is commonly used in various electronic devices such as remote controls, flashlights, and toys. The voltage of a battery determines its power output and compatibility with different devices.
What if a bird sat on a power line that was very close to the ground, placing one foot on the wire and one foot on the ground?
A.
No current would flow through the bird, so nothing would happen
B.
The bird would experience a voltage difference between the wire and the ground and would get fried
C.
The bird's feet are insulated, so it doesn't matter what it touches
Correct Answer
B. The bird would experience a voltage difference between the wire and the ground and would get fried
Explanation If a bird sat on a power line that is very close to the ground and placed one foot on the wire and one foot on the ground, it would experience a voltage difference between the wire and the ground. This is because the power line is at a higher potential than the ground. The bird's body would complete the circuit, allowing current to flow through it. This current flow can be dangerous and could potentially harm or kill the bird.
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36.
Why can birds sit on a power line?
A.
Because birds have minimal resistance compared to household electronics, so current is diverted to the houses instead
B.
Because the wire is in the air and air has infinite resistance so no current flows through the wire
C.
Because birds' feet are insulated so current is not conducted through them
D.
Because both feet are on the same voltage line, so there is no potential difference, so current does not flow through the bird
Correct Answer
D. Because both feet are on the same voltage line, so there is no potential difference, so current does not flow through the bird
Explanation Birds can sit on a power line because both of their feet are on the same voltage line. This means that there is no potential difference between their feet, so no current flows through the bird.
To control how much current flows through a particular part of the circuit so other components work properly
D.
Resistors don't really exist, they are just a concept
Correct Answer
C. To control how much current flows through a particular part of the circuit so other components work properly
Explanation Resistors are used in a circuit to control the amount of current flowing through a specific part of the circuit. This is important because different components in a circuit may require different levels of current to function properly. By using resistors, the current can be regulated to ensure that each component receives the appropriate amount of current, allowing all the components to work together efficiently.
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39.
True or False. In a circuit, we describe current as flowing from + to -, even though in reality electrons are moving from - to +, which results in the same effect overall.
A.
True.
B.
False.
Correct Answer
A. True.
Explanation In a circuit, current is described as flowing from + to -, even though in reality electrons are moving from - to +. This is because conventional current flow was established before the discovery of electrons. It is a convention that simplifies the understanding and analysis of circuits. The direction of current flow does not affect the overall effect or behavior of the circuit, so it is still accurate to describe current in this way.
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40.
True or False. Circuit diagrams are schematic maps drawn to represent the connections between electrical components like batteries, resistors, light bulbs, etc.
A.
True.
B.
False.
Correct Answer
A. True.
Explanation Circuit diagrams are indeed schematic maps that are used to represent the connections between electrical components such as batteries, resistors, and light bulbs. These diagrams use symbols to represent each component and lines to show how they are connected. By using circuit diagrams, engineers and electricians can easily understand and analyze complex electrical systems without the need for detailed explanations or physical representations.
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41.
Two identical resistors are connected. Their REQ is less than the resistance of either resistor on its own. Most likely, the resistors are connected how?
A.
In series
B.
In parallel
C.
They are most likely not connected at all
Correct Answer
B. In parallel
Explanation When two identical resistors are connected in parallel, the total resistance of the combination, also known as REQ, is less than the resistance of either resistor on its own. This is because in a parallel circuit, the current has multiple paths to flow through, resulting in a decrease in overall resistance. In contrast, if the resistors were connected in series, the total resistance would be greater than the resistance of either resistor individually. Therefore, the most likely way the resistors are connected is in parallel.
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42.
Two identical resistors are connected. Their REQ is exactly double the resistance of each on its own. Most likely, the resistors are connected how?
A.
In series
B.
In parallel
C.
Most likely, they are not connected to one another
Correct Answer
A. In series
Explanation When two identical resistors are connected in series, the total resistance of the circuit is equal to the sum of the individual resistances. In this case, the total resistance (REQ) is exactly double the resistance of each resistor on its own. This indicates that the resistors are connected in series, as the total resistance is increased by adding the resistances together.
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43.
Two identical batteries are connected. Their total voltage is exactly twice as much as either battery on its own. Most likely, they are connected how?
A.
In series
B.
In parallel
C.
Most likely they are not connected to one another
Correct Answer
A. In series
Explanation When two identical batteries are connected in series, their voltages add up. In this case, the total voltage is exactly twice as much as either battery on its own, indicating that the batteries are connected in series.
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44.
Calculate the REQ for the entire circuit. ( Hint: First, calculate the REQ for the resistors in series in each branch. Then, calculate the REQ of those REQs, which will be in parallel.)
A.
300/61 Ohms
B.
110 Ohms
C.
240/11 Ohms
D.
305/12 Ohms
Correct Answer
C. 240/11 Ohms
Explanation The correct answer is 240/11 Ohms. To calculate the REQ for the entire circuit, we first need to calculate the REQ for the resistors in series in each branch. In the first branch, the series resistors are 100 Ohms and 160 Ohms, which gives us a total of 260 Ohms. In the second branch, the series resistors are 120 Ohms and 180 Ohms, which gives us a total of 300 Ohms. Finally, we calculate the REQ of those REQs, which are in parallel, by using the formula 1/REQ = 1/260 + 1/300. Simplifying this equation gives us REQ = 240/11 Ohms.
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45.
True or false. Metals make good insulators because they don't share electrons easily.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation Metals do not make good insulators because they are actually good conductors of electricity. In metals, the outer electrons are loosely bound and can move freely throughout the material, allowing for the easy flow of electric current. This is why metals are used in electrical wires and other conductive materials. Insulators, on the other hand, are materials that do not conduct electricity well and prevent the flow of electrons.
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46.
What are ions?
A.
Electrons
B.
Atoms that are positively or negatively charged
C.
Neutrons
D.
An unexpected outcome in literature
Correct Answer
B. Atoms that are positively or negatively charged
Explanation Ions are atoms that have gained or lost electrons, resulting in a positive or negative charge. This charge is due to an imbalance between the number of protons and electrons in the atom. When an atom gains electrons, it becomes negatively charged, and when it loses electrons, it becomes positively charged. These charged atoms, or ions, play important roles in chemical reactions and electrical conductivity.
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47.
Which of these drawings best shows the electrical field around a positive point charge?
A.
All arrows radiating out from the center
B.
Some arrows pointing out and some pointing in from the center
C.
All arrows pointing in towards the center
D.
Arrows lining up on horizontal axis and approaching the center
Correct Answer
A. All arrows radiating out from the center
Explanation The correct answer is "all arrows radiating out from the center." This is because a positive point charge creates an outward electric field, where the field lines extend radially away from the charge. The arrows represent the direction of the electric field, and in this case, they should all point away from the center to indicate the outward direction of the field.
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48.
True or false. Opposite charges attract.
A.
True.
B.
False.
Correct Answer
A. True.
Explanation Opposite charges attract because they have opposite polarities. According to the laws of electromagnetism, positive charges are attracted to negative charges and vice versa. This attraction occurs due to the exchange of virtual particles called photons, creating an electromagnetic force between the charges. This phenomenon is observed in various aspects of physics, such as the attraction between protons and electrons in atoms or the attraction between positively and negatively charged objects.
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49.
What factors contribute to a material's resistance?
A.
The ph, the voltage, and its frequency
B.
What the material is, the flammability, and the current
C.
What the material is, the age, and the amplitude
D.
What the material is, the length, and the thickness
Correct Answer
D. What the material is, the length, and the thickness
Explanation The factors that contribute to a material's resistance are what the material is, the length, and the thickness. The type of material affects its inherent resistance to the flow of electric current. The length of the material also plays a role, as longer materials offer more resistance. Similarly, the thickness of the material affects resistance, with thicker materials offering less resistance to the flow of current.
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50.
Alex walks across the carpet, reaching towards a doorknob, and receives a shock. Why?
A.
Alex and the door knob were both postively charged. When Alex touched the door knob, he felt a shock because like charges attract.
B.
The doorknob was too close to the doorbell, and a wire must have been touching it. Alex has no charge because he is a person.
C.
Alex acquired charge by walking across the carpet, probably stripping electrons off the carpet. These charges jumped to the doorknob which probably had the opposite charge of Alex. The shock was the current of these moving charges from Alex to the doorknob.
D.
Alex and the door knob are both insulators. It is impossible for Alex to feel a shock.
Correct Answer
C. Alex acquired charge by walking across the carpet, probably stripping electrons off the carpet. These charges jumped to the doorknob which probably had the opposite charge of Alex. The shock was the current of these moving charges from Alex to the doorknob.
Explanation Alex felt a shock because as he walked across the carpet, he most likely stripped electrons off the carpet, acquiring a charge. When he touched the doorknob, these charges jumped to the doorknob, which probably had the opposite charge of Alex. The shock that Alex felt was the result of the current of these moving charges flowing from Alex to the doorknob.
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