Resistors and Ohms law

In this experiment, the main objective is to find the resistance of different materials. First, we get the resistance of a cylindrical ceramic resistor by the color codes int the resistor. Then we confirmed that resistance using ohmmeter. We also got the resistance and learned how to use the rheostat, resistance box, and variable resistor. We already knew how the resistance box works. But for the rheostat, we are not yet really sure what is the function of the probe.


We also got the equivalent resistance of cylindrical ceramic resistors in parallel and series connections. This is the part where we took some time because when we computed the equivalent resistance from the color codes of the resistor depending on what type of connection, the ohmmeter reading value is highly deviated from what we computed. So we have to do it all over again but still got the same results. We need to know why and what is the problem with that.

We also did circuit analysis for ohmic and non ohmic materials and compare the relationship of current and voltage between these two.

Electric potential and Electric field

Our first experiment in physics 102.1 is mapping equipotential lines. At first I don't understand and don't know what to do in this experiment because we were not yet taught by our professor the concept of electric field and electric potentials. By using the setup shown below, we can determine which parts of the electrolytic tank(dish of water) have equal potentials.

Connecting these points together what is formed is an equipotential line.Getting points with same potential or voltage is not that easy because we get some slight differences and at a certain point the electic potential fluctuates so we have to wait for the voltage to become steady. After having enough equipotential lines, we can get the electric lines of force which is perpendicular to the equipotential lines. And now the problem is how can I plot these lines in the computer.