Skip to main content

Previous

A painless bite

Next

A question of proportionality

skillset

Capacitor charge and discharge

In this volume of PHYSICS REVIEW, Skillset describes some of the practical activities suggested or required by the A-level awarding bodies, and discusses how they enable you to satisfy the Common Practical Assessment Criteria. Here Ian Lovat discusses investigating capacitor charge and discharge

To satisfy the Common Practical Assessment Criteria (CPACs) for A-level physics, you need to demonstrate competence in the following areas: following written procedures; applying investigative approaches and methods; safely using equipment and materials; making and recording observations; and researching, planning and reporting (including data analysis).

The awarding bodies for A-level physics require or suggest a number of practical activities that will allow you to satisfy the CPACs. Among other requirements, these expect you to be able to use appropriate ICT, such as computer modelling, a datalogger with a variety of sensors to collect data, or software to process data. You should also be able to use appropriate digital instruments, including electrical multimeters, to obtain a range of measurements including time, voltage and resistance. Measuring the charge and discharge of a capacitor gives an excellent opportunity to practise these skills.

Your organisation does not have access to this article.

Sign up today to give your students the edge they need to achieve their best grades with subject expertise

Subscribe

Previous

A painless bite

Next

A question of proportionality

Related articles: