How does the Thickness of Wire Affect Resistance?

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How does the Thickness of Wire Affect Resistance?

I have chosen to investigate the effect thickness will have on the resistance in wire.

Apparatus

  • Wires of varying thickness
  • Power pack
  • Leads
  • A voltmeter
  • An ammeter
  • Crocodile clips

Prediction

I predict that the thicker the wire, the lesser the amount of resistance. This is because as electrons pass through a circuit, they give off heat. The surrounding atoms use this heat as energy, which causes them to vibrate. As the electrons give off more energy, the atoms vibrate more, making it harder to allow the electrons to get through the wire. Therefore, a thinner piece of wire will create more resistance (because there is less space for the electrons to get though). See the diagram below for more explanation.

Method

  1. Set up the apparatus listed above.
  2. Set voltmeter and ammeter to correct settings.
  3. Measure current and alter voltage when appropriate.
  4. Record results.
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Fair Testing

To make sure that my experiment is a fair test, I need to know the factors that could alter the accuracy of my results.  4 factors that affect resistance are:

  • What metal the wire is made of.
  • The thickness of the wire.
  • The temperature of the wire.
  • The length of the wire.

Therefore, I will need to use the same type and length (1 meter) of wire, at the same temperature each time. The only factor I will alter is the thickness. I will also make sure that my apparatus is self-supporting ...

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