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Types of forces

(a) A force is a push or pull (or twist) exerted upon an object.

(b) The unit used to measure force is newton (N) named after Sir Isaac Newton.
(c) Forces always act in pairs, e.g. when a force pushes an object forward another is acting
in the opposite direction.
(d) A force can change the direction of an object, speed, shape or stop an abject in motion.
Examples of effects of a force
1. Pushing a trolley: The applied force overcomes friction, causing the trolley to accelerate in the
direction of the push.
2. Opening a door: A force applied at the edge creates torque, making the door rotate around its
hinges.
3. Squeezing a loaf of bread: The compressive force deforms the bread, changing its shape and size.
4. A goalkeeper stopping a ball: The goalkeeper applies an opposing force, decelerating the ball
until it stops.

CONTACT FORCES
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Definition: A contact force is a force that occurs when two objects are physically touching each other. It
arises due to direct interaction between surfaces or bodies in contact.

Examples of Contact Forces:

(a) Friction – The resistance between two surfaces sliding against each other.

o Example: A car's tires gripping the road to prevent skidding.

o Application: Braking systems, walking, writing with a pen.
(b) Tension – The force experienced by a string, rope, or cable when pulled.

o Tension always pulls, it never pushes.

o It acts along the length of the rope or cable.
o The force is directed away from the object experiencing the
tension.
o Example: A hanging lamp supported by a chain.
o Application: Cranes lifting loads, elevators, rock climbing ropes.
(c) Compression – A pushing force that squeezes an object.

o It acts inward toward the center of the object.

o It tries to reduce the size or length of the object.
o It is the opposite of a tension force, which pulls and stretches.
o Example: A compressed spring or a person sitting on a chair.
o Application: Shock absorbers in vehicles, building foundations.
(d) Normal Force – An equal but opposite force exerted by a surface
perpendicular to

an object lying on the surface.

o Example: A book resting on a table.

o Application: Designing structures like
bridges and furniture.
(e) Air Resistance (Drag) – A frictional force exerted
by air on moving objects.

o Example: A parachute slowing down a

skydiver.
o Application: Aerodynamics in cars and airplanes.

NON-CONTACT FORCES (FIELD FORCES)

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Definition: Field forces are forces that act between two objects without physical contact, due to their
interaction through fields (gravitational, magnetic, or electric).

The term "field forces" highlights that these forces work through invisible fields, not contact.

1. Gravitational Force

Definition: The attractive force between objects with mass.

1. More Mass = Stronger Pull

o A heavy object (like Earth) pulls harder than a light one (like a
tennis ball).
2. Farther Apart = Weaker Pull

o If two objects move apart from each other, the gravitational force between them decreases.
3. Weight and Mass

o Mass: Never changes (e.g., your body is the same on Earth or the Moon). Mass stays the same
everywhere because it measures the amount of matter in an object, not gravity.
o Weight: Weight changes as gravity changes
because it's the force of gravity acting on your
mass (e.g., you weigh less on the Moon due to
weaker or less gravity.).

 Measured in newtons (N).

Applications:

o Space missions (calculating planetary orbits).

o Engineering (structural stability).
o Everyday life (walking, falling objects).

2. Magnetic Force

Definition: The force exerted by magnets on

magnetic materials, e.g., iron, nickel, cobalt, steel
(NICS).

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Examples:
(a) Opposite poles attracting (N-S) and like poles repelling (N-N or S-S).
(b) Earth’s magnetic field guiding compass needles.

Applications: Electric motors and generators.

(a) MRI machines (medical imaging).
(b) Maglev trains (frictionless transport).

3. Electrostatic Force

 Definition: The force between electrically charged objects (due to electron transfer).
 Examples:

o Rubbing a balloon on hair (static cling).

o Lightning (discharge between clouds and ground).
 Applications:

o Photocopiers and printers.

o Industrial coating processes.

Key Differences from Contact Forces:

 Act without physical touch (e.g., Earth pulling a falling apple and friction slowing it on the ground).
 Governed by field interactions (gravity, magnetism, electric charge).

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ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS: WRITE YOUR ANSWERS IN FULL

Fundamental Concepts

1. What is the scientific definition of a force?

A. A force is only the energy an object possesses
B. A force is a push, pull, or twist exerted upon an object.
2. What is the standard unit for measuring force?
A. The newton (N) is the standard unit for measuring force
B. The watt (W) is the standard unit for measuring force.
3. According to Newton's Third Law, how do forces interact?
A. Forces can exist independently without interactions
B. Every time one object pushes or pulls on another, the second object pushes or pulls back
with the same strength in the opposite direction.
4. What can forces do to objects?
A. Forces can change an object's speed, direction, or shape
B. Forces can only make objects move faster.
5. What is required for a force to act on an object?
A. Force can act on single isolated objects.
B. Force requires an interaction between two objects.
6. Which factors affect a force?
A. A force is affected by mass and distance.
B. A force is affected by mass and volume.
7. What instrument measures force?
A. A thermometer measures force.
B. A spring scale or force meter measures force.
8. What is the relationship between force and motion?
A. Force causes changes in an object's motion.
B. Motion occurs independently of force.

Contact Forces

9. What is the definition of friction?

A. Friction is the attractive force between molecules.
B. Friction is the resistive force when two surfaces move against each other.

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10. Where does tension force typically occur?
A. Tension occurs in stretched ropes, cables, or chains.
B. Tension occurs in compressed springs.
11. What is a common example of compression force?
A. Compression force occurs when pulling a wagon.
B. Compression force occurs when standing on a floor.
12. What is the normal force?
A. Normal force is parallel to the contact surface
B. Normal force is the perpendicular support force from a surface.
13. What is air resistance?
A. Air resistance is friction between air and moving objects
B. Air resistance is the weight of air molecules.
14. How does surface texture affect friction?
A. Smoother surfaces create more friction.
B. Rougher surfaces generally create more friction.
15. What force allows brakes to stop a car?
A. Friction between brake pads and wheels stops a car.
B. Magnetic force stops a car.
16. What happens to friction on icy surfaces?
A. Friction increases on icy surfaces.
B. Friction decreases on icy surfaces.
17. What force allows nails to hold wood together?
A. Compression force holds nails in wood
B. Tension force holds nails in wood.
18. Why do shoes have tread patterns?
A. Tread decreases friction for sliding.
B. Tread increases friction for better grip.
19. What force acts on a book resting on a table?
A. Normal force supports the book.
B. Magnetic force supports the book.
20. What happens to air resistance as speed increases?
A. Air resistance decreases with speed.
B. Air resistance increases with speed.

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Gravitational Force

21. What factors affect gravitational force?

A. Color and temperature affect gravitational force.
B. Mass and distance affect gravitational force.
22. How does weight differ from mass?
A. Weight depends on gravity while mass is constant.
B. Weight and mass are identical measurements.
23. Why do objects weigh less on Mars and the Moon?
A. The Moon has no gravity
B. Mars and Moon's weaker gravities cause less weight.
24. What keeps planets orbiting the Sun?
A. The Sun's gravitational pull maintains orbits.
B. Magnetic forces maintain planetary orbits.

25. How does distance affect gravity?

A. Gravity strengthens with increasing distance.
B. Gravity weakens with increasing distance.

26. What is free-fall acceleration on Earth?

A. Approximately 9.8 m/s² is Earth's free-fall acceleration.
B. Approximately 1.6 m/s² is Earth's free-fall acceleration.

27. Why do astronauts float in space?

A. There's no gravity in space.
B. They're in continuous free-fall around Earth.

Gravitational Force

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29. How does gravity affect tides?
A. The Moon's gravity creates tidal bulges.
B. The Sun's gravity alone creates tides

Magnetic and Electrostatic Forces

30. Which materials are magnetic?

A. Iron, nickel, and cobalt are magnetic materials.
B. All metals are equally magnetic.

31. How do magnetic poles interact?

A. Opposite poles attract, like poles repel.
B. All poles attract each other.
32. What creates Earth's magnetic field?
A. Earth's molten iron core creates its magnetic field.
B. Earth's crust creates its magnetic field.
33. What causes static electricity?
A. Electron transfer between objects causes static electricity.
B. Proton transfer causes static electricity.
34. What demonstrates electrostatic discharge?
A. Lightning demonstrates electrostatic discharge.
B. Earthquakes demonstrate electrostatic discharge.
35. How do photocopiers use static electricity?
A. They use static to attract toner to paper.
B. They use static to create heat.
36. Why does a balloon stick to hair after rubbing?
A. Opposite charges attract the balloon to hair.
B. Magnetic forces make it stick.
37. What happens when you bring a charged rod near water?
A. The water stream bends due to polarization.
B. The water evaporates immediately.

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Applications and Analysis

37. How do maglev trains reduce friction?

A. They levitate using magnetic repulsion.
B. They use special wheels.
38. What force primarily slows a parachute?
A. Air resistance slows a parachute.
B. Gravity slows a parachute.
39. Why do engineers consider force in bridge design?
A. Bridges must withstand various forces.
B. Bridges only need to look attractive.
40. How does force explain car safety features?
A. Crumple zones (soak up the crash energy by crumpling) absorb impact forces.
B. Airbags increase impact forces.

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ELECTROSTATIC FORCE
What is Electrostatic Force?

Electrostatic force is the force of attraction or repulsion between electrically charged objects
due to their static (non-moving) charges.
When you rub certain materials together (like a balloon on your hair), they can become electrically
charged. This happens because electrons (tiny negative particles) move from one material to another.
The material that loses electrons becomes positively charged (+), and the one that gains electrons
becomes negatively charged (–).

What Does It Do?

 Like charges repel: Two positives (+) or two negatives (–) push each other away.
 Opposite charges attract: A positive (+) and negative (–) pull toward each other.

Examples to Investigate (Using Everyday Objects):

1. Balloon and Hair:

o Rub an inflated balloon on your hair.

o The balloon steals electrons from your hair, becoming negative (–).
o Your hair loses electrons, becoming positive (+).
o Result: The balloon sticks to your hair (opposite charges attract) or a wall (if the wall is neutral).
2. Plastic Comb and Paper:

o Rub a plastic comb with a woolen cloth.

o The comb gains electrons, becoming negative (–).
o Hold the comb near tiny paper pieces.
o Result: The paper jumps to the comb (even if neutral, the comb induces a temporary charge).

Real-World Example: Lightning

 Thunderclouds charge up when air and water

particles rub together.
 Lightning is a giant discharge of this charge
between clouds or the ground.

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 Safety Tip:
During thunderstorms, stay indoors! Lightning is a dangerous electrostatic discharge.

o Never shelter under trees, tents, or picnic pavilions!

2. Avoid Being the Tallest Object

 If your hair stands on end, lightning is about to strike—drop to a crouch!

3. Stay Away from Conductors

 Unplug appliances and avoid sinks/showers during storms.

4. Wait 30 Minutes After the Last Thunder

Why It Matters:
This force explains why:

 Your clothes cling together from the dryer (static cling).

 A rubbed balloon sticks to a wall.

Note: These experiments work best in dry weather. Humidity (moist air) makes charges "leak"
away.

Answer the following questions:

Fundamentals of Electric Charge

Electric Charge Fundamentals

1. What is the primary mechanism by which objects become electrically charged?

A. Through electron transfer when materials rub together, creating charge imbalance.
B. Through creation of new electrons during friction
2. When a balloon is rubbed on hair, why does it become negatively charged?
A. The balloon loses protons to the hair
B. The balloon gains electrons from the hair

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 Charge Interactions

3. Why do two positively charged objects repel?

A. Their electric fields create repulsive force (Coulomb's
Law)
B. Positive charges "naturally" move apart
4. Why can a charged comb attract neutral paper?
A. The paper becomes permanently charged.
B. The comb induces temporary charge separation in
paper.

Atmospheric Electricity

5. What causes lightning?

A. Discharge of static between charged cloud/ground regions.
B. Air ionization from temperature changes
6. Why does humidity disrupt electrostatic demonstrations?
A. Moisture creates neutralizing magnetic fields.
B. Water provides conductive paths for charge dissipation.

Practical Applications

7. What causes static cling in laundry?

A. Electron transfer between fabrics creates complementary charges.
B. Heat generates temporary magnetic fields.
8. How do photocopiers use electrostatics?
A. Magnetic fields align ink particles.
B. Charged drum attracts toner, transfers to paper.

Safety Considerations

9. Why avoid tall objects in lightning storms?

A. Lightning strikes highest conductive path to ground.
B. Tall objects accumulate repulsive positive charges.

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10. What is the safest position if caught outside during lightning?
A. Lie flat to distribute current.
B. Crouch low with feet together to minimize strike risk.

Advanced Concepts

11. Why does a charged balloon stick to a wall?

A. The balloon induces opposite charge in the wall's
surface.
B. The wall permanently rearranges to match the charge.

Historical Context

12. How do electrostatic precipitators clean emissions?

A. Using magnetic separation
B. Charging particles to attract to collector plates

Everyday Phenomena

14. Why do you get shocked touching a doorknob?

A. Your body's built-up charge discharges through the knob
B. The doorknob generates its own static charge

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ELECTRIC CELLS AS ENERGY SYSTEMS

(a) An electric cell refers to a system where chemical reactions results in the flow of
electricity.
(b) The reaction typically occurs between two pieces of metal, called electrodes,
and a liquid or paste, called an electrolyte.
(c) For a battery to work well, the electrodes must be made up of two different
types of materials.
(d) The following diagrams show: a zinc – copper cell using one of the solutions in the salt bridge
and a lemon battery.
(e) Adding more lemons will increase the voltage and increase the chances to make the battery
to work or the LEDs to light up.

RESISTANCE - USES OF RESISTORS

(a) A conductor allows electric current to pass through it.
(b) Some of the energy in a conductor is lost as heat when the conductor heats up.
(c) All conductors have some resistance but the resistance differs from one conductor to
another.
(d) A resistor controls the movement of current as it passes through.

(e) Resistors change electric energy into useful

energy e.g. for cooking, light, ironing etc.

(f) Energy-Saving Bulbs examples are LED or CFL

Bulbs (Compact Fluorescent Lamps).

(g) The Non-Energy-Saving Bulbs examples are

Incandescent and Halogen.

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Answer the following questions

Electric Cells

1. What is the primary function of an electric cell?

A) The primary function of an electric cell is to convert chemical energy into electrical energy
through reactions between electrodes and an electrolyte.
B) The primary function of an electric cell is to store pre-existing electricity in liquid form for later use.
C) The primary function of an electric cell is to generate magnetic fields for industrial use.
D) The primary function of an electric cell is to amplify sound waves in electronic devices.
2. Why must the electrodes in a battery be made of different materials?
A) The electrodes must be different because identical materials would cancel out the electric current
due to balanced charges.
B) The electrodes must be different to create a potential difference necessary for electron flow in the
chemical reaction.
C) The electrodes must be different to prevent the electrolyte from evaporating.
D) The electrodes must be different to comply with international battery standards.
3. What role does the electrolyte play in an electric cell?
A) The electrolyte acts as an insulator to prevent short circuits.
B) The electrolyte facilitates ion movement between electrodes to complete the circuit.
C) The electrolyte stores electrical charge for future use.
D) The electrolyte generates light during energy conversion.
4. How does a lemon battery generate electricity?
A) A lemon battery generates electricity because the lemon’s water content conducts existing
electricity from the environment.
B) A lemon battery generates electricity because the acidic lemon juice acts as an electrolyte,
enabling reactions between dissimilar metal electrodes.
C) A lemon battery generates electricity through photosynthesis-like reactions in the fruit.
D) A lemon battery generates electricity by absorbing solar energy through its peel.
5. What happens when you add more lemons to a lemon battery?
A) Voltage increases because each lemon adds another cell in series, summing their potentials.
B) Current decreases because the extra lemons dilute the electrolyte concentration.
C) Resistance decreases because the additional lemons create parallel pathways.
D) The battery becomes unstable due to conflicting chemical reactions.

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6. Why might a zinc-copper cell fail to work?
A) A zinc-copper cell might fail because the wires connecting the electrodes are too thick to allow
electron flow.
B) A zinc-copper cell might fail because the salt bridge is missing or the electrodes are not chemically
reactive enough.
C) A zinc-copper cell might fail because the metals repel each other magnetically.
D) A zinc-copper cell might fail because the electrolyte becomes solid at room temperature.

Resistance and Resistors

7. What causes resistance in conductors?

A) Resistance in conductors is caused by protons in the nucleus absorbing electrical energy to
stabilize the conductor.
B) Resistance in conductors occurs when electrons collide with atoms in the material, converting
some energy into heat.
C) Resistance in conductors is caused by magnetic fields interfering with electron flow.
D) Resistance in conductors results from electrons moving faster than the speed of light.
8. How do resistors control current in a circuit?
A) Resistors control current by storing excess electrons to prevent overloads in the circuit.
B) Resistors control current by limiting electron flow and converting electrical energy into heat or
light.
C) Resistors control current by generating opposing magnetic fields.
D) Resistors control current by temporarily absorbing all electrical energy.
9. Why do incandescent bulbs waste more energy than LEDs?
A) Incandescent bulbs waste more energy because their glass enclosures absorb visible light,
reducing output.
B) Incandescent bulbs waste more energy because they rely on heating a filament, losing energy as
heat rather than producing light efficiently.
C) Incandescent bulbs waste more energy because they require alternating current instead of direct
current.
D) Incandescent bulbs waste more energy because they emit ultraviolet radiation.

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10. What is a key advantage of CFL bulbs over halogen bulbs?
A) A key advantage of CFL bulbs is that they last longer because they operate at higher temperatures
than halogen bulbs.
B) A key advantage of CFL bulbs is that they use less energy by exciting gas molecules to produce
light without excessive heat.
C) A key advantage of CFL bulbs is that they can be used underwater without safety risks.
D) A key advantage of CFL bulbs is that they emit a broader spectrum of colors naturally.
11. How does resistance affect household appliances like irons?
A) Resistance affects irons because low-resistance elements allow current to bypass the heating
mechanism.
B) Resistance affects irons because high-resistance elements convert electrical energy into heat for
ironing clothes.
C) Resistance affects irons by causing them to cool down faster during use.
D) Resistance affects irons by making them incompatible with standard power outlets.
12. Why might a circuit with multiple resistors have reduced current?
A) A circuit with multiple resistors has reduced current because resistors absorb electrons
permanently, leaving fewer to complete the circuit.
B) A circuit with multiple resistors has reduced current because total resistance increases in series,
lowering current according to Ohm’s Law (V=IR).
C) A circuit with multiple resistors has reduced current because the resistors generate opposing
voltages.
D) A circuit with multiple resistors has reduced current because the power supply automatically
throttles output.

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 FACTORS THAT AFFECT RESISTANCE IN A CIRCUIT
(a) Different materials have different resistance because materials have different properties.
(b) Resistance is affected by the following:
o Thickness of the conductor – thicker conductors have less resistance and vice versa.
o Length of the resistor - longer conductors have more resistance and vice versa.
o Temperature of the resistance – higher temperature has higher resistance and vice
versa.

o The type of material used as a conductor -different materials have different

resistances.

Answer the following questions in full

1. How does the thickness of a conductor affect its resistance?

A) Thicker conductors have higher resistance.

B) Thicker conductors have lower resistance.
C) Thickness does not affect resistance.

2. What happens to the resistance of a wire if its length is doubled?

A) Resistance decreases by half.

B) Resistance remains the same.
C) Resistance doubles.

3. How does temperature affect the resistance of a conductor?

A) Higher temperature increases resistance.

B) Higher temperature decreases resistance.
C) Temperature has no effect on resistance.

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4. Why do different materials have different resistances?

A) Because they have different atomic structures.

B) Because they have different colors.
C) Because they have the same conductivity.

5. Which of the following has the least resistance?

A) A long, thin copper wire.

B) A short, thick copper wire.
C) A long, thick iron wire.

6. If a wire is made thinner, what happens to its resistance?

A) Resistance increases.
B) Resistance decreases.
C) Resistance stays the same.

7. Which factor does NOT affect resistance?

A) Color of the conductor.

B) Length of the conductor.
C) Material of the conductor.

8. Why do metals generally have low resistance?

A) Because they have free electrons.

B) Because they are shiny.
C) Because they are heavy.

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INVESTIGATION

APPARATUS
 Circuit board, copper wire, zinc wire, nichrome wire, ruler and vernier scale or
micrometre.

HYPOTHESIS

What is your hypothesis for investigation A?

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

METHOD
1. Set up a circuit containing two cells, ammeter and a copper wire of 10 cm long.
2. Take the reading from the ammeter and record it in the table.
3. Repeat the procedure using a 15cm and lastly a 20cm long copper wire.
4. Using the same circuit, use three wires of the same length with the thicknesses of ~
3mm, 5mm and 8mm.
5. Connect the ~3mm wire to the circuit and take a reading from the ammeter and
record it in the table.
6. Repeat the procedure using the 5mm and 8mm wires.
7. Using the same circuit now use different wires with the same length (copper, zinc and
nichrome).
8. Connect a copper wire, take a reading from the ammeter and record in the table.
9. Repeat the procedure using zinc and nichrome wires.

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 RESULTS

Investigation A
Factor Ammeter Ammeter
Investigated Ammeter Reading Reading
Reading
Length 10 cm 15 cm 20 cm

Investigation B
Thickness ~3mm ~5mm ~ 8mm

Investigation C
Type of
material Copper zinc Nickel

OBSERVATION
1. What is your dependent variable in investigation A?
______________________________________________________________________________

2. What is your independent variable in investigation B?

______________________________________________________________________________

3. What are your controlled variables in investigation C?

______________________________________________________________________________
4. Discuss how temperature also affects resistance.

________________________________________________________________

CONCLUSION

5. What is your conclusion?

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

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 SERIES CIRCUITS
(a) For cells connected in series their voltages (potential differences) add up.

(b) Resistors can also be connected in series.

(c) In a series circuit, the electric current has only one path to follow.

(d) The resistor with higher resistance has a higher voltage of the total voltage in the

 circuit. Use the diagram to answer some of the questions that follow:

Answer the following questions:

1. What characterizes all series circuits?
A) Current has only one path to flow through all components
B) Current can choose between multiple paths
2. If two 1.5V cells are connected in series, what is the total voltage?
A) 1.5V (same as single cell)
B) 3V (sum of both cells)

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3. In a series diagram circuit with 9V battery and three equal resistors:
How is voltage distributed?
A) Each resistor gets 3V (equal division)
B) Depends on resistor values
4. In a circuit with battery, switch, and two bulbs, what happens if one bulb
burns out?
A) Both bulbs turn off
B) The other bulb stays on
5. In a series circuit with 12V battery, 4Ω and 8Ω resistors, where is voltage drop greater?
A) Across 4Ω resistor
B) Across 8Ω resistor
6. If three ammeters are at different points in series circuit, what do all ammeters show?
A) The ammeters will have different current values
B) The ammeters will have same current value
7. In a series circuit with battery and two resistors (R1 > R2)]
Which one converts more energy to heat?
A) R1 because it has higher resistance.
B) R2 because it has lower resistance.
8. In a series circuit with gap or broken wire.
What happens to current?
A) It continues flowing around gap or wire
B) It stops completely
9. In series circuit with battery, resistor, and LED]
Why is a resistor needed?
A) To limit current through LED
B) To increase voltage for LED

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ARALLEL CIRCUITS
(a) Cells in Parallel: Have same voltage
 When identical cells are connected + to + and – to –, the total voltage stays the same as one cell.
 Example: Two 1.5V AA cells in parallel still give 1.5V, but last longer.

(b) Parallel and Series Cells

 Parallel cells: Connect all + ends together and

all – ends together (voltage stays same).

 Series cells: Connect + of one to – of the

next (voltage adds up).

 Example: Two 1.5V cells in series give 3V; in parallel, they stay 1.5V.

(c) Parallel Resistors → Less Resistance

 Adding resistors in parallel decreases total resistance.

 Example: Two identical bulbs in parallel glow brighter (because they have less resistance) than one.

(d) Household Wiring Uses Parallel Circuits

 Homes use parallel connections making devices to work independently.

 Example: If one light burns out, others stay on.

(e) Resistance and Current

 Higher resistance results in less current (like a narrow pipe

slowing water flow).
 Lower resistance results in more current (like a wide pipe).

(f) Same Voltage in Parallel Resistors

 In parallel, all resistors get the full voltage of the power source.
 Example: Three bulbs in parallel get the same voltage (both
glow equally bright).

(g) Current Splits in Parallel (Kirchhoff’s Law)

 Current divides at junctions, taking multiple paths.

 Example: If two identical bulbs are in parallel, half the current goes through each.

25 DEJC
ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS
1. If two 1.5V CELLS are connected + to + and - to -]
What is the total voltage output of these parallel-connected batteries?
A) 1.5V because the voltage equals that of a single cell.
B) 3V because the voltages add together.
2. The main advantage of parallel cells connections is:
A) Creating higher voltage for more power.
B) Maintaining voltage while increasing runtime or lasting longer.
3. When resistors are added in parallel, the total resistance:
A) Decreases below any individual resistor's value
B) Increases proportionally with each added resistor
4. Houses use parallel circuits primarily because:
A) In a parallel connection devices operate independently of each other.
B) Parallel wiring uses less copper wire.
5. In a parallel circuit with 12V source and two bulbs, in this configuration, each bulb receives:
A) 6V (voltage splits between components).
B) 12V (full source voltage).
6. When current split at a junction (According to Kirchhoff's Current Law):
A) The sum of currents entering a junction equals the sum exiting.
B) Current divides equally regardless of resistance.
7. In parallel branches with 4Ω and 12Ω resistors, most current will flow through the:
A) 4Ω path which has less resistance.
B) 12Ω path which has more resistance.
8. If three bulbs are wired in parallel and the middle bulb burns out:
A) All bulbs will stop working.
B) The other two bulbs remain lit.
9. In the pipe analogy, parallel branches represent:
A) Alternative pathways for current flow.
B) Voltage pressure points.
10. When ammeters measuring different parallel branches: The ammeters will display:
A) Different current values in each branch depending on the resistances.
B) Identical readings in all branches regardless the resistances.

26 DEJC
11. The fuse before parallel branches: When this fuse blows:

A) Current stops flowing to all branches

B) Only the overloaded branch disconnects
12. For two different bulbs in parallel, the brighter bulb indicates:
A) Lower resistance in that branch
B) Higher resistance in that branch
13. In a parallel circuit, adding more branches will cause the total current
drawn from the source to:
A) Increase
B. Decrease
C) Stay the same
14. If one branch of a parallel circuit has a short circuit (zero resistance), what happens to the other
branches?
A) They stop working due to excessive current.
B) They continue operating normally.
C) Their voltage drops to zero.

27 DEJC
SAFETY WITH ELECTRICITY

(a) Sometimes parallel connections are overloaded.

(b) Safety devices such as circuit breakers, fuses and earth
leakage systems are used to prevent fire.
(c) A three pin plug comprising live (brown), neutral (blue)
and earth (yellow and green) wires are commonly used.
(d) The earth cable releases a charge to the ground if there is
a fault.
(e) Illegal connections disregard safety measures and are a form of energy theft.

ELECTRICITY GENERATION
Power stations generate electricity.
(a) Most power stations in South Africa are coal-
fired (use coal).
(b) In a coal fired power station coal is used to heat
water, the water produces steam and the steam
is used to turn turbines.
(c) The turbines turn generators which produce
electricity.
(d) Solar, wind, energy and nuclear are some of the
alternative means to produce electricity.

Answer the following questions

ELECTRICAL SAFETY QUESTIONS:

1. What is the main purpose of electrical safety measures?

A) To increase electricity bills
B) To prevent electric shocks, fires and injuries
C) To make electrical devices work faster
2. Which of these are electrical safety devices?
A) Fuses, circuit breakers and earth leakage devices
B) Light bulbs, switches and extension cords
C) Batteries, transformers and resistors

28 DEJC
3. How does the earth wire in a three-pin plug improve safety?
A) It increases the voltage of the appliance
B) It provides a safe path for fault current to flow into the ground
C) It makes the appliance use less electricity
4. What does the BROWN wire in a three-pin plug represent?
A) Neutral wire
B) Live wire (carries current from the source)
C) Earth wire (safety grounding)
5. Why are illegal electricity connections dangerous?
A) They provide free electricity with no risks
B) They bypass safety mechanisms, increasing fire and shock risks
C) They make the electrical system more efficient

ELECTRICITY GENERATION QUESTIONS:

6. What is the primary fuel used in most South African power stations?
A) The primary fuel used in most South African power stations is natural gas
B) The primary fuel used in most South African power stations is coal
C) The primary fuel used in most South African power stations is solar energy
7. In a coal-fired power station, what is the purpose of the steam?
A) The purpose of the steam is to cool the generators down.
B) The purpose of the steam is to turn the turbines that generate electricity.
C) The purpose of the steam is to clean the coal before burning.
8. Which device actually produces electricity in power stations?
A) The device that actually produces electricity in power stations is transformers.
B) The device that actually produces electricity in power stations is generators.
C) The device that actually produces electricity in power stations is circuit breakers.
9. Which of these is a non-renewable energy source?
A) Solar power
B) Wind power
C) Coal power

29 DEJC
 10. What is the main advantage of renewable energy sources?
A) They are always cheaper than fossil fuels
B) They produce no greenhouse gas emissions during operation
C) They work better at night than during the day
11. In a hydroelectric power station, what turns the turbines?
A) Burning coal
B) Flowing water
C) Nuclear reactions
12. Why are nuclear power plants different from coal plants?
A) They use uranium instead of coal to produce heat
B) They don't need turbines to generate electricity
C) They produce more air pollution than coal plants.

NUCLEAR POWER IN SOUTH AFRICA

(a) Nuclear power stations use radioactive fuel instead of coal.

(b) Heat is produced by nuclear fission.

(c) Nuclear fission is the splitting a nucleus of an

atom into two smaller ones producing a lot

of energy in the process.

(d) The heat turns water into high-pressure

steam.
(e) The steam pushes against turbine blades, making them spin.
(f) The spinning turbine drives a generator, creating electricity.

(g) Nuclear power station such a Koeberg in the Cape helps channel electricity into the
national energy grid.
(h) Nuclear waste is dangerous and remains radioactive for hundreds of years and must be
correctly stored and disposed.

30 DEJC
 Answer the following questions:
1. What type of fuel do nuclear power stations use instead of coal?
2. How is heat produced in a nuclear power station?
3. In your own words, describe how nuclear fission works.
4. What role does water play in generating electricity in a nuclear power plant?
5. If the turbine in a nuclear plant stopped working, how would this affect electricity production?
6. Why is Koeberg Nuclear Power Station important for South Africa’s energy supply?
7. Compare the environmental impacts of nuclear power and coal power. Which has a greater long-
term risk, and why?
8. Do you think nuclear power is a good solution for South Africa’s energy needs? Justify your answer
with pros and cons.

NATIONAL ELECTRICITY GRID

1. What is the National Grid?

o It’s a network that connects power stations, power lines, and consumers.
o If one part of the grid changes, it affects
the whole system.
2. How Electricity Moves Through the Grid:

o Power stations generate electricity at high

voltage (to reduce energy loss).
o Power lines carry electricity across long
distances.
o Transformers lower the voltage before it
reaches homes and businesses.
3. Energy Loss:

o About 15% of energy is lost as heat in power lines and transformers.

4. Problems in the Grid:

o Power surges (sudden spikes in electricity) or overloads (too much demand) can cause blackouts.
o The purpose of load shedding is to prevent a total national blackout by intentionally cutting power
to certain areas when electricity demand exceeds supply.

31 DEJC
Answer the following questions

NATIONAL ELECTRICITY GRID

1. What is the National Grid?

A) The National Grid is a network that connects power stations, power lines, and consumers.
B) The National Grid is a system that only distributes electricity to industries.
C) The National Grid is a type of renewable energy source.
D) The National Grid is a backup system used during emergencies.

2. How does electricity move through the grid?

A) Electricity moves through the grid at low voltage to ensure safety.

B) Electricity moves through the grid at high voltage to reduce energy loss.
C) Electricity moves through the grid without the use of transformers.
D) Electricity moves through the grid only during peak hours.

3. What is the purpose of transformers in the grid?

A) Transformers increase voltage before electricity reaches homes.

B) Transformers lower voltage before electricity reaches homes and businesses.
C) Transformers store excess electricity for later use.
D) Transformers generate additional electricity.

4. How much energy is typically lost in the grid?

A) About 5% of energy is lost as heat.

B) About 15% of energy is lost as heat in power lines and transformers.
C) About 30% of energy is lost due to inefficiencies.
D) Energy loss in the grid is negligible.

5. What can cause blackouts in the grid?

A) Only natural disasters cause blackouts.

B) Power surges or overloads can cause blackouts.
C) Blackouts only happen due to technical failures in power stations.
D) Blackouts occur when too many people use solar power.

32 DEJC
6. Why is electricity transmitted at high voltage?

A) To make it safer for households.

B) To reduce energy loss over long distances.
C) To increase the speed of electricity flow.
D) To make it compatible with all appliances.

7. What is the purpose of load shedding?

A) Load shedding increases electricity generation capacity.

B) Load shedding prevents a total national blackout by cutting power to some areas when demand
exceeds supply.
C) Load shedding is used to repair power stations.
D) Load shedding encourages people to use less electricity permanently.

8. What happens if one part of the grid fails?

A) Only that specific area is affected.

B) It can affect the whole system.
C) Backup systems automatically take over without disruption.
D) The grid shuts down permanently.

9. What is a power surge?

A) A sudden drop in electricity demand.

B) A sudden spike in electricity that can damage the grid.
C) A planned increase in power generation.
D) A temporary shutdown of power stations.

10. How do power lines contribute to energy loss?

A) By storing excess electricity.

B) By converting electricity into heat due to resistance.
C) By increasing voltage unnecessarily.
D) By reducing the distance electricity travels.

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 THE COST OF ELECTRICAL POWER

CALCULATING THE COST OF ELECTRICITY

(a) The SI unit for power is Watt.
(b) One Kilowatt is equivalent to 1000 W.
(c) Kilowatt-hour (kWh) is the unit used to measure energy over a certain period.
(d) If a unit is given in Watts, it must first be converted to kW.
(e) When the unit is in kW, it can then be multiplied by the time of usage.
(f) cost = power rating of the appliance × the number of hours it was used × the unit price of
electricity

Study the table and complete it: Cost of electricity for a day (1kWh = 212 cents)

Power Usage Energy (kWh) Energy Cost Daily

Appliance
Rating Time Calculation (kWh) Calculation Cost

1.
60W =
Incandescent 5 hours 0.06 × 5 0.3 kWh 0.3 × R2.12 R0.64
0.06 kW
Bulb

10W = 0.05
2. LED Bulb 5 hours 0.01 × 5 0.05 × R2.12 R0.11
0.01 kW kWh

150W =
3. Refrigerator 24 hours
0.15 kW

800W = 15 minutes
4. Microwave
0.8 kW = 0.25h

5. Electric 10 minutes
2.2 kW
Kettle = 0.1667h

6. Washing
2.5 kW 1 hour
Machine

7. Air
3.5 kW 8 hours
Conditioner

8. Solar Water
0.2 kW 2 hours
Heater

34 DEJC