2015 #2 Free Response Question - AP Physics 1 - Exam Solution

The video tutorial covers a question from the 2015 AP Physics exam, focusing on designing an experiment to determine what gets used up in an incandescent light bulb in series with a resistor. The tutorial explains the circuit setup, including the use of ammeters and voltmeters, and describes the experimental procedure to measure current and potential difference. It also discusses how to analyze the data to determine if the light bulb is ohmic or non-ohmic, emphasizing the importance of understanding Ohm's Law. The video concludes with tips for approaching AP Physics exams, highlighting the need to design experiments and avoid dependency on numerical data.

What are the two main questions students want to answer about the incandescent light bulb in the circuit?

• Does the electric potential energy of the electrons change inside the bulb?

• Does the bulb emit light of a specific color?

• Do fewer electrons leave the bulb than enter it in one second?

• How much heat is produced by the bulb?

What equipment is necessary to measure the current through the light bulb?

• Voltmeter

• Ammeter

• Thermometer

• Barometer

How can you determine if the number of electrons entering and leaving the bulb is the same?

• By measuring the temperature of the bulb

• By observing the brightness of the bulb

• By comparing the current readings from two ammeters placed before and after the bulb

• By measuring the voltage across the bulb

What does a non-zero electric potential difference across the light bulb indicate?

• The bulb is emitting light

• The bulb is overheating

• The electric potential energy of the electrons changes inside the bulb

• The bulb is not functioning

What is the definition of a non-ohmic light bulb?

• A bulb that has a constant resistance

• A bulb whose resistance changes with current

• A bulb that only works in parallel circuits

• A bulb that does not emit light

How can you determine if a light bulb is ohmic using a graph?

• By checking if the graph is a parabola

• By checking if the graph is a hyperbola

• By checking if the graph is a straight line

• By checking if the graph is a circle

Why is it important to consider uncertainties in measurements when analyzing data?

• To ensure the data is completely accurate

• To account for possible errors and improve the reliability of conclusions

• To make the data more complex

• To avoid using any mathematical calculations