Chapter 3

Current Electricity
Important Results
q hρ
1. Electric current I = =
t t
I
2. Current density J =
A
3. Drift velocity of electrons
eEτ veτ
vd = =
m ml
v d eτ
4. Mobility of free electrons µ = =
E m
I
5. Relation between drift velocity and free electrons, v d =
Ane
V ml
6. Ohm’s law =R= = constant
I Ane2 τ
where, R is called electrical resistance.
7. Resistivity or specific resistance
RA m
ρ= = 2
l ne τ
8. In series combination of resistors, R1 R2 R3
R = R1 + R2 + R3
and total potential drop V = V1 + V2 + V3 . R1
9. In parallel combination of resistors, R2
1 1 1 1
= + + R3
R R1 R2 R3
Total current drawn I = I1 + I2 + I3
10. Temperature dependence of resistance
Rt = T0 (1 + αt)
R − R1
and α= 2
R1(t2 − t1)
11. Emf of a cell E = V + Ir
E E 
and I= and r =  − 1 R
(R + r ) V 
 NCERT Class XII Physics Solutions 79

12. Joule’s law of heating

V2
W = I2 Rt = VIt = t joule
R
13. Power dissipated
W V2
P= = I2 R = VI = watt
t R
1
14. Conductance G =
Electrical resistance (R)
1
15. Conductivity σ =
Resistivity ( ρ)
16. Kirchhoff ’s laws
(i) Junction law ΣI = 0 ; (ii) Loop law ΣV = 0 P Q
P R
17. Wheatstone bridge =
Q S G
18. Meter bridge Unknown resistance
100 − l  R S
(S) =   R
 l 
V
19. Potentiometer Potential gradient (K) = ( (
l

Exercises
Question 1. The storage battery of a car has an emf of 12 V. If the
internal resistance of the battery is 0.4 Ω, what is the maximum current
that can be drawn from the battery?
To find the maximum current, use the concept that the current is
maximum, if the external load resistance is zero.

Solution Given, emf E = 12 V, internal resistance r = 0.4 Ω

E
∴Current drawn from the battery I =
R+ r
In case of maximum current, R = 0
E
∴ Imax =
r
12
= = 30 A
0.4
Question 2. A battery of emf 10 V and internal resistance 3 Ω is
connected to a resistor. If the current in the circuit is 0.5 A, what is the
resistance of the resistor? What is the terminal voltage of the battery
when the circuit is closed?
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Solution Given, emf of battery, E = 10 V R

Internal resistance, r = 3 Ω
Current in circuit, I = 0.5 A r
emf
The current in the circuit =
Total resistance of the circuit E
E
I=
R+ r
10
∴ 0.5 =
R+3
or R + 3 = 20
R = 17 Ω
When the circuit is closed, the terminal voltage
V = E − Ir = 10 − 0.5 × 3 = 10 − 1.5 = 8.5 V
Thus, the resistance in the circuit is 17 Ω and terminal voltage of the
battery when the circuit is closed, is 8.5 V.
Question 3. (a) Three resistors 1 Ω, 2 Ω and 3 Ω are combined in series.
What is the total resistance of the combination?
(b) If the combination is connected to a battery of emf 12 V and
negligible internal resistance, obtain the potential drop across each
resistor.
Use the formula of series combination of resistances. In series
combination, current in each resistor is same but potential drop is
different in different resistors.
Solution (a) R1 = 1 Ω, R2 = 2 Ω and R3 = 3 Ω R1 R2 R3

Resultant resistance in series

RS = R1 + R2 + R3
RS = 1 + 2 + 3 = 6 Ω V
(b) The potential drop across each resistor is R1 R2 R3
different when two or more resistances
are connected in series combination. V1 V2 V3
I
Let V1, V2 and V3 be the potential drops
across resistances R1, R2 and R3
respectively and the current flowing 12 V
through the circuit is I.
V 12
∴ I= = =2A
RS 6
Current is same through each resistor as they are in series.
Potential drop across resistance R1, V1 = IR1 = 2 × 1 = 2 V
Potential drop across resistance R2 , V2 = IR2 = 2 × 2 = 4 V
 NCERT Class XII Physics Solutions 81

Potential drop across resistance R3 , V3 = IR3 = 2 × 3 = 6 V

Thus, the potential drop across resistance 1 Ω is 2V, resistance 2 Ω is
4 V and resistance 3 Ω is 6 V.

Question 4. (a) Three resistors 2 Ω, 4 Ω and 5 Ω are combined in

parallel. What is the total resistance of the combination?
(b) If the combination is connected to a battery of emf 20 V and
negligible internal resistance, determine the current through each
resistor and the total current drawn from the battery.
Use the formula of parallel combination of resistances. In parallel
combination, the current flowing through each resistor is different but
potential drop across each resistore remains same.
Solution Given, R1 = 2 Ω, R2 = 4 Ω and R3 = 5 Ω R1
(a) Resultant resistance in parallel
R2
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
= + + = + +
RP R1 R2 R3 2 4 5 R3
1 10 + 5 + 4 19
= =
RP 20 20
20
RP = Ω
19
(b) In case of parallel combination, the current R1
flowing through each resistance is different, I1
let I1, I2 and I3 and the potential drop across R2
each resistor is same as the applied potential I2
difference V = 20 V I3 R3
Current through resistance R1
V 20
I1 = = = 10 A
R1 2
20 V
Current through resistance R2
V 20
I2 = = =5A
R2 4
Current through resistance R3
V 20
I3 = = =4A
R3 5
Total current drawn I = I1 + I2 + I3
= 10 + 5 + 4 = 19 A
Thus, the current flowing through 2 Ω is 10 A, 4 Ω is 5 A and 5 Ω is
4 A. Total current drawn from the battery I = I1 + I2 + I3
= 10 + 5 + 4
= 19 A
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Question 5. At room temperature (27.0°C) the resistance of a heating

element is 100 Ω. What is the temperature of the element, if the resistance
is found to be 117 Ω, given that the temperature coefficient of the material
of the resistor is 1.70 × 10 − 4 /°C.
Use the concept that the resistance of a heating element increases with
increase in temperature.
Solution Given, the resistance of heating element at temperature 27 °C
= R27 = 100 Ω
Resistance of heating element at temperature t°C = Rt = 117 Ω
Temperature coefficient of resistance α = 1.70 × 10− 4 /°C
Temperature coefficient of resistance
Rt − R27
α=
R27 (t − 27)
117 − 100
1.70 × 10−4 =
100 (t − 27)
17
or t − 27 =
100 × 1.70 × 10− 4
or t = 1000 + 27 = 1027 °C
Thus, the temperature of element is 1027 °C when its resistance is 117 Ω.
Question 6. A negligible small current is passed through a wire of
length 15 m and uniform cross-section 6 .0 × 10 − 7 m 2 and its resistance is
measured to be 5.0 Ω. What is the resistivity of the material at the
temperature of the experiment?
Solution Given, area of cross-section of wire ( A) = 6.0 × 10− 7 m2
Length of the wire l = 15 m
Resistance of wire R = 5 Ω
Let the resistivity of the material be ρ.
l
Resistance of wire R = ρ
A
RA 5 × 6.0 × 10− 7
or ρ= = = 2 × 10− 7 Ω-m
l 15
Thus, the resistivity of the material at the temperature of the experiment
is 2 × 10− 7 Ω-m.

Question 7. A silver wire has a resistance of 2.1 Ω at 27.5 °C and a

resistance of 2.7 Ω at 100 °C. Determine the temperature coefficient of
resistivity of silver.
Solution Given, resistance of silver wire at 27.5 °C = R27.5 = 2.1 Ω
Resistance of silver wire at 100 °C = R100 = 2.7 Ω
 NCERT Class XII Physics Solutions 83

Let the temperature coefficient of silver be α.

Rt − Rt1
α= 2
R1 (t2 − t1)
R100 − R27.5
α=
R27.5 (100 − 27.5)
2.7 – 2.1
=
2.1 × 72.5
α = 0.0039/ °C
Thus, the temperature coefficient of resistivity of silver is 0.0039/ °C.
Question 8. A heating element using nichrome connected to a 230 V
supply draws an initial current of 3.2 A which settles after a few seconds
to a steady value of 2.8 A. What is the steady temperature of the heating
element, if the room temperature is 27.0°C? Temperature coefficient of
resistance of nichrome averaged over the temperature range involved is
1.70 × 10 − 4 °C −1 .
Solution Given, potential difference = 230 V
Initially current at 27°C = I27° C = 3.2 A
Finally current at t°C = It ° C = 2.8 A
Room temperature = 27°C
Temperature coefficient of resistance
α = 1.70 × 10− 4 / °C
V 230 2300
Resistance at 27 °C, R27 ° C = = = Ω
I27° C 3.2 32
V 230 2300
Resistance at t°C, Rt ° C = = = Ω
It ° C 2.8 28
Temperature of coefficient of resistance
Rt − R27
α=
R27 (t − 27)
2300 2300
−
−4
⇒ 1.7 × 10 = 28 32
2300
(t − 32)
32
82.143 – 71.875
or t − 27 = = 840.347
71.875 × 1.7 × 10− 4
or t = 840.3 + 27
= 867.3 ° C
Thus, the steady temperature of heating element is 867.3 °C.
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Question 9. Determine the current in each branch of the network

shown in given figure.
B

10 Ω 5Ω

A C
5Ω

5Ω
10 Ω
D

10 Ω 10 V
Here, the given circuit is closed having two closed loops, so to calculate
the current in the circuit we have to apply Kirchhoff’s laws.

Solution From Kirchhoff ’s Ist law, i.e., loop law,

ΣV = ΣIR
B

10 Ω 5Ω
I2
I1 I1 – I 2
A 5Ω C

5Ω 10 Ω
I – I1 I
I I – I1 + I2
D

F E
10 Ω 10 V

In loop ABDA Distributing the current

10I1 + 5I2 − 5 (I − I1) = 0
2I1 + I2 − I + I1 = 0
3I1 + I2 = I …(i)
In loop BCDB
5 (I1 − I2 ) − 10 (I − I1 + I2 ) − 5 I2 = 0
I1 − I2 − 2I + 2I1 − 2I2 − I2 = 0
3I1 − 4I2 = 2I …(ii)
By solving the Eq. (i) and Eq. (ii), we get
2I I
I1 = and I2 = − …(iii)
5 5
 NCERT Class XII Physics Solutions 85

In loop ABCEFA
10 = 10I + 10I1 + 5 (I1 − I2 )
2 = 2I + 3I1 − I2 …(iv)
Putting the values of I1 and I2 from Eq. (iii) in Eq. (iv), we get
 2I   I 
2 = 2I + 3   −  − 
 5   5
17
or 2= I
5
10
or I= A
17
2 10 4
Current in branch AB, I1 = × = A
5 7 17
I 2
and I2 = − = − A
5 17
4
Current in branch AB is I1 = A
17
4  2 6
Current in branch BC is I1 − I2 = − −  = A
17  17 17
10 4 6
Current in branch AD is I − I1 = − = A
17 17 17
6  2 4
Current in branch DC is (I − I1) + I2 = + −  = A
17  17 17
Question 10. (a) In a meter bridge, the balance point is found to be at
39.5 cm from the end A, when the resistor Y is of 12. 5 Ω. Determine
the resistance of X. Why are the connections between resistors in a
Wheatstone or meter bridge made of thick copper strips?
(b) Determine the balance point of the bridge above, if X and Y are
interchanged.
(c) What happens, if the galvanometer and cell are interchanged at the
balance point of the bridge? Would the galvanometer show any
current?
Use the concept of balanced Wheatstone bridge as meter bridge works
on the principle of a balanced Wheatstone bridge.
X Y
Solution (a) Balance point from end A,
l = 39.5 cm G
Resistance of resistor Y = 12.5 Ω l 100 – l
Resistance of resistor X = ? A B
According to the condition of
balanced Wheatstone bridge
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X l
=
Y 100 − l
l
X = .Y
100 − l
39.5 × 12.5
X= = 8.16 Ω
100 – 39.5
The resistance of resistor X is 8.16 Ω.
In meter bridge, the resistance at the connections is not taken in the
consideration that’s why the connections between resistors in a
Wheatstone bridge or meter bridge made of thick copper strips
 1
because more is the thickness, lesser be the resistance as R ∝  ,
 A
so due to thick copper stripes, the resistance at the connections
becomes minimum.
(b) If X and Y are interchanged, then the balance length will also
interchanged. Thus, the balance length becomes
100 – 39.5 = 60.5 cm
(c) If the galvanometer and cell are interchanged at the balance point
of the bridge, the balance point is not obtained. The galvanometer
shows no deflection.

Question 11. A storage battery of emf 8.0 V and internal resistance

0. 5 Ω is being charged by a 120 V DC supply using a series resistor of
15. 5 Ω. What is the terminal voltage of the battery during charging? What
is the purpose of having a series resistor in the charging circuit?
Use the formula of terminal potential difference in charging a cell.

Solution Emf of the battery e = 8 V, emf of DC supply V = 120 V

Since, the battery is bring changed, so effective emf in the circuit
E = V − e = 120 − 8 = 112 V
8V
Current in circuit,
Effective emf E r = 0.5 Ω
I= =
Total resistance r + R
112 R = 15.5 Ω
=
0.5 + 15.5
112 120 V
= =7A
16
The battery of 8 V is being charged by 120 V, so the terminal potential
across battery of 8 V will be greater than its emf
Terminal potential difference V = E + Ir = 8 + 7 (0.5) =115
. V
The purpose of the series resistance is to control the current drawn from
the external supply, other the current in the circuit will be very high.
 NCERT Class XII Physics Solutions 87

Question 12. In a potentiometer arrangement, a cell of emf 1.25 V gives

a balance point at 35.0 cm length of the wire. If the cell is replaced by
another cell and the balance point shifts to 63.0 cm, what is the emf of the
second cell?
Use the concept of potential gradient as in case of potentiameter it
E E
remains constant i.e., 1 = 2 .
l1 l2
Solution Given, E1 = 1.25 V, l1 = 35 cm and l2 = 63 cm
As we know that in case of potentiometer, the potential gradient remains
constant.
i. e., E∝l
E1 l1
∴ =
E2 l2
1.25 35
=
E 63
1.25 × 63
or E= = 2.25 V
35
Thus, the emf of the second cell is 2.25 V.
Question 13. The number density of free electrons in a copper conductor
estimated at 8.5 × 10 28 m − 3 . How long does an electron take to drift from
one end of a wire 3.0 m long to its other end? The area of cross-section of
the wire is 2. 0 × 10 − 6 m 2 and it is carrying a current of 3.0 A.
To find the time for the electrons to drift from one end to other, we have to
calculate the drift velocity of the electrons first.
Solution Given, number density of electrons n = 8.5 × 1028 /m3
Length of wire l = 3 m
Area of cross-section of wire A = 2 × 10− 6 m2
Current I = 3 A and charge on electron e = 1.6 × 10− 19 C
Time taken by electron to drift from one end to another of the wire,
Length of the wire l
t= = …(i)
Drift velocity vd
Using the relation, I = ne A v d
I
or vd = …(ii)
ne A
Putting the value in Eq. (ii) from Eq. (i),
l ne A 3 × 8.5 × 1028 × 1.6 × 10− 19 × 2 × 10− 6
t= =
I 3
or t = 2.72 × 104 s = 7 h 33 min
Thus, the time taken by an electron to drift from one end to another end
is 7 h 33 min.
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Additional Exercises
Question 14. The earth’s surface has a negative surface charge density
of 10 − 9 C/m 2 . The potential difference of 400 kV between the top of the
atmosphere and the surface results (due to the low conductivity of the
lower atmosphere) in a current of only 1800 A over the entire globe. If
there were no mechanism of sustaining atmospheric electric field, how
much time (roughly) would be required to neutralise the earth’s surface?
(This never happens in practice because there is a mechanism to
replenish electric charges, namely the continual thunderstorms and
lightning in different parts of the globe. Radius of earth = 6 .37 × 10 6 m)
Solution Given, radius of earth R = 6.37 × 106 m
Negative surface charge density σ = 10− 9 C/m2
Potential difference V = 400 kV = 400 × 103 V
Current on the globe I = 1800 A
Surface area of earth A = 4πR2 = 4 × 3.14 × (6.37 × 106)2
= 509.64 × 1012 m2
Charge on earth surface Q = Area of earth surface
× Surface charge density
Q = A σ = 509.64× 1012 × 10− 9
= 509.64 × 103 C
We know that Q = It
∴Time required to neutralize earth’s surface
Q 509.64 × 103
t= =
I 1800
t = 283.1 s or t = 4 min 43 s
Thus, the time required to neutralize the earth’s surface is 283.1 s.

Question 15. (a) Six lead-acid type of secondary cells each of emf
2.0 V and internal resistance 0.015 Ω are joined in series to provide
a supply to a resistance of 8.5 Ω. What are the current drawn from
the supply and its terminal voltage?
(b) A secondary cell after long use has an emf of 1.9 V and a large
internal resistance of 380 Ω. What maximum current can be drawn
from the cell? Could the cell drive the starting motor of a car?
The question is based on the grouping of cells, so we have to use the
formula for equivalent emf and internal resistance for the group of the
cells.
 NCERT Class XII Physics Solutions 89

2V 2V 2V 2V 2V 2V
Solution (a) Six cells are joined in
series shown in figure.
Emf of each cells E = 2 V
r = 0.015 Ω
Total emf of circuit = n × E = 6 × 2
= 12 V
Number of cells n = 6 R = 8.5 Ω
Internal resistance of each cell r = 0.015 Ω
Total internal resistance = n × r = 6 × 0.015 = 0.09 Ω
External load R = 8.5 Ω
Current in the circuit
nE 12
I= = = 1.4 A
nr + R 0.09 + 8.5
The terminal voltage of battery V = IR = 1.4 × 8.5 = 11.9 V
(b) Emf of cell E = 1.9 V
Internal resistance of cell r = 380 Ω
Maximum current can be drawn from the cell, if there is zero
external resistance. Therefore,
E 1.9
Imax = = = 0.005 A
r 380
Now, we see that the maximum current drawn from the cell is very
low, thus the cell cannot be used to drive the starting motor of a car
as the current required for this purpose is approximately 100 A for
few records.
Question 16. Two wires of equal lengths, one of aluminium and the
other of copper have the same resistance. Which of the two wires is
lighter? Hence, explain why aluminium wires are preferred for overhead
power cables?
(ρ Al = 2.63 ×10 − 8 Ω-m, ρ Cu = 1.72 × 10 − 8 Ω-m. Relative density of Al = 2.7 of
Cu = 8.9.)
Solution Parameters for aluminium are as follows :
Length lAl = l, density dAl = 2.7 and area AAl = A1
Parameters for copper are as follows :
Length lCu = l, density dCu = 8.9 and area ACu = A2
Let the resistivity of aluminium is ρ Al and the resistivity of copper is ρ Cu .
l
Using the relation R = ρ
A
Resistance of aluminium wire
l 2.63 × 15− 8 × l
RAl = ρ Al ⋅ Al = …(i)
AAl A1
Mass of aluminium wire mAl = AAl × lAl × dAl = A1 × l × 2.7 …(ii)
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Resistance of copper wire

lCu 1.72 × 10− 8 × l
RCu = ρ Cu × = …(iii)
ACu A2
Mass of copper wire
mCu = ACu × lCu × dCu = A2 × l × 8.9 …(iv)
According to the question, the resistance of aluminium wire is same the
resistance of copper wire.
i.e., RAl = RCu
2.63 × 10− 8 × l 1.72 × 10− 8 × l
=
A1 A2
[From Eqs. (i) and (iii)]
A1 2.63
or = …(v)
A2 1.72
From Eqs. (ii) and (iv), we get
mAl A × l × 2.7
= 1
mCu A2 × l × 8.9
mAl 2.63 × 2.7
= [From Eq. (v)]
mCu 1.72 × 8.9
mCu
or = 2.16
mAl
Here, we conclude that the copper wires are 2.16 times heavier than
aluminium. Now, we see that for equal lengths and resistances,
aluminium wire is lighter than copper wire, so aluminium wire due to its
lesser mass is used for overhead power cables. Because a heavy cable
may break or drown due to its higher mass or weight.
Question 17. What conclusion can you draw from the following
observations on a resistor made of alloy manganin?
Current Voltage Current Voltage
(in A) (in V) (in A) (in V)
0.2 3.94 3.0 59.2
0.4 7.87 4.0 78.8
0.6 11.8 5.0 98.6
0.8 15.7 6.0 118.5
1.0 19.7 7.0 138.2
2.0 39.4 8.0 158.0
In these types of questions, first of all calculate the ratio of voltage and
current on the basis of which we will be able to draw any conclusion like
it follows Ohm’s law or not etc.
 NCERT Class XII Physics Solutions 91

Solution
Current Voltage Ratio Current Voltage Voltage
(in A) (in V) (V/I) (in A) (in V) (in V)
0.2 3.94 19.7 3.0 59.2 59.2
0.4 7.87 19.675 4.0 78.8 78.8
0.6 11.8 19.66 5.0 98.6 98.6
0.8 15.7 19.625 6.0 718.5 118.5
1.0 19.7 19.7 7.0 138.2 138.2
2.0 39.4 19.7 8.0 158.0 158.0
As the ratio of voltage and current for different reading is same. So,
Ohm’s law is valid for manganin.
The resistance of alloys (manganin here) does not depend on
temperature as their temperature coefficient of resistance is
negligibly small. So, the resistance and resistivity of manganin is
independent of temperature.
Question 18. Answer the following questions :
(a) A steady current flows in a metallic conductor of non-uniform
cross-section. Which of these quantities is constant along the
conductor : current, current density, electric field and drift speed?
(b) Is Ohm’s law universally applicable for all conducting elements? If
not, give examples of elements which do not obey Ohm’s law.
(c) A low voltage supply from which one needs high currents must
have very low internal resistance. Why?
(d) A High Tension (HT) supply of (say) 6 kV must have a very large
internal resistance. Why?
Solution (a) Current does not depend on area of conductor, so current
remains constant. Current density is inversely proportional to area
 1
of cross-section,  J ∝  , electric field and drift speed also depend
 A
 1 1
on area  E ∝ and v d ∝  . So, current density, electric field and
 A A
drift speed do not remain constant as area changes.
(b) No, Ohm’s law is not universally applicable for all conducting
elements. Vacuum tubes, semiconductors, diodes, transistors,
thermistors and electrolytes are the examples of elements which do
not obey Ohm’s law.
(c) For very high current, the internal resistance should be low by
V
according to the formula Imax = , as lesser be the value of
r
r (internal resistance) more is the current.
(d) A high tension supply must have a very large internal resistance
because if the circuit is shorted the internal resistance is not large
enough than current drawn will exceed the safe limit and will cause
the damages.
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Question 19. Choose the correct alternative.

(a) Alloys of metals usually have (greater/less) resistivity than that of
their constituent metals.
(b) Alloys usually have much (lower/higher) temperature coefficients
of resistance than pure metals.
(c) The resistivity of the alloy manganin is nearly (independent
of/increases) rapidly with increase of temperature.
(d) The resistivity of a typical insulator (e.g., amber) is greater than
that of a metal by a factor of the order of (10 22 /10 23 ).
Solution (a) The resistivity of alloys of metals usually have greater
resistivity than that of their constituent metals.
(b) Alloys usually have much lower temperature coefficients of
resistance than pure metals.
(c) The resistivity of the alloy manganin is nearly independent of
increase of temperature because the coefficient of resistance is very
low and its resistivity is quite large.
(d) The resistivity of a typical insulator (mica and amber) is greater
than that of a metal by a factor of the order of 10 22. Because
insulator has maximum resistivity in comparison to metals and
alloys.
Question 20. (a) Given, n resistors each of resistance R, how will you
combine them to get the (i) maximum (ii) minimum effective
resistance? What is the ratio of the maximum to minimum
resistance?
(b) Given the resistances of1 Ω, 2 Ω and 3 Ω, how will we combine them
to get an equivalent resistance of (i) (11/3) Ω, (ii) (11/5) Ω, (iii) 6 Ω
and (iv) (6/11) Ω?
(c) Determine the equivalent resistance of networks shown in given
figure.
R

R
1Ω 1Ω 1Ω 1Ω 1Ω
R

R
2Ω 2Ω 2Ω 2Ω 2Ω
(a) (b)

Solution (a) To get the maximum effective resistance, we connect the

n resistors in series combination.
Rmax = R + R + ... + n times = nR …(i)
 NCERT Class XII Physics Solutions 93

To get the minimum effective resistance, we connect the n resistors

in parallel combination.
1 1 1 n
= + + ... + n times =
Rmin R R R
R
Rmin = …(ii)
n
Ratio of maximum to minimum resistance
R nR. n
= max = [From Eqs. (i) and (ii)]
Rmin R
= n2
Thus, the ratio of maximum to minimum resistance, is n2 .
(b) Given, R1 = 1 Ω, R2 = 2 Ω and R3 = 3 Ω
(i) To get the equivalent resistance as R1
11
Ω, we join them as shown.
3
Here, R1 and R2 in parallel, i. e.,
R3
1 1 1 1 3
= + =1 + = R2
RP R1 R2 2 2
2
RP = Ω
3
Now, RP and R3 are in series. So, resultant resistance
2 11
R = RP + R3 = 3 + = Ω
3 3
11
(ii) To get the equivalent resistance as Ω, we R2
5
join them as shown.
Here, R2 and R3 are in parallel, i. e.,
R1
1 1 1 1 1 3+2 5
= + = + = = R3
RP R2 R3 2 3 6 6
6
RP = Ω
5
Now, RP and R1 are in series. So resultant resistance
6 11
R = RP + R1 = + 1 = Ω
5 5
(iii) To get the equivalent resistance as 6 Ω, we join them in series as
shown.
Resultant resistance R1 R2 R3

RS = R1 + R2 + R3 = 1 + 2 + 3 = 6 Ω
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6
(iv) To get the equivalent resistance as Ω, we R1
11
get join them as shown i.e., in parallel. R2
1 1 1 1 6 + 3 + 2 11
= + + = =
RP 1 2 3 6 6 R3

6
Resultant resistance RP = Ω
11
(c) We take one section of Fig. (a).
1Ω 1Ω
Here, 1 Ω and 1 Ω are in series.
∴ RS = 1 + 1 = 2 Ω
and 2 Ω and 2 Ω are in series.
∴ R′S = 2 + 2 = 4 Ω
Now, RS and R′S in parallel, 2Ω 2Ω
1 1 1 1 1 2 +1 3
= + = + = =
R′ RS R′S 2 4 4 4
4
∴Resultant resistance, R′ = Ω
3
There are four such sections in the Fig. (a) which are connected in
series. So, equivalent resistance of Fig. (a)
4 16
R = 4R′ = 4 × = Ω
3 3
or R = 5.33 Ω
In the Fig. (b), all resistances are connected in series, so the
equivalent resistance
R′ = R + R + R + R + R = 5 R
Question 21. Determine the current drawn from a 12 V supply with
internal resistance 0.5 Ω by the infinite network shown in given figure.
Each resistor has 1 Ω resistance.
1Ω 1Ω 1Ω 1Ω 1Ω

1Ω 1Ω 1Ω 1 Ω (12V,
0.5Ω)

1Ω 1Ω 1Ω 1Ω 1Ω

Solution Let the effective resistance of the network is x. If one part of

the network has resistance (1 Ω, 1 Ω, 1 Ω) is separated as shown, the
effective resistance remains x (as it is infinitely network). Here, x and 1 Ω
are in parallel.
 NCERT Class XII Physics Solutions 95

1 1 1 1+ x
= + = 1Ω
RP x 1 x
x
RP = x 1 Ω 12 V, 0.5 Ω
1+ x
Now, resistances RP, 1 Ω and 1 Ω are in series. So,
the resultant resistance 1Ω
x x
R = RP + 1 + 1 = +1+1= +2 …(i)
1+ x 1+ x
In case of infinite resistances, the value of R remains x.
x
∴ x= +2
1+ x
x (x + 1) = x + 2 + 2x
x − 2x − 2 = 0
2

− (−2) ± 4 + 8
x=
2
2 ± 12
= =1 ± 3
2
The value of resistance cannot be negative. So, the resistance of network
x = 1 + 3 = 1 + 1.732
x = 2.732 Ω
Total resistance of the circuit = 2.732 + 0.5 = 3.232 Ω
Current drawn from the supply,
V 12
I= = = 3.72 A
3.232 3.232
Question 22. Figure shows a 2 V 0.4 Ω
potentiometer with a cell of 2.0 V and
internal resistance 0.40 Ω maintaining a
potential drop across the resistor wire AB.
A standard cell which maintains a A
constant emf of 1.02 V (for very moderate B
currents upto a few mA) gives a balance
point at 67.3 cm length of the wire. To
ensure very low currents drawn from the G
standard cell, a very high resistance of
600 kΩ is put in series with it, which is 600 kΩ
shorted close to the balance point. The standard cell is then replaced by a
cell of unknown emf ε and the balance point found similarly, turns out to
be at 82.3 cm length of the wire.
(a) What is the value of ε?
(b) What purpose does the high resistance of 600 kΩ have?
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(c) Is the balance point affected by this high resistance?

(d) Is the balance point affected by the internal resistance of the driver
cell?
(e) Would the method work in the above situation, if the driver cell of
the potentiometer had an emf of 1.0 V instead of 2.0 V?
(f) Would the circuit work well for determining an extremely small
emf, say of the order of a few mV (such as the typical emf of a
thermocouple)? If not, how will you modify the circuit?
Solution (a) Here, E1 = 1.02 V, l1 = 67.3 cm, E2 = E = ? and l2 = 82.3 cm
E∝l
E1 l1
∴ =
E2 l2
1.02 67.3
⇒ =
E 82.3
1.02 × 82.3
or E= = 1.247 V
67.3
Emf of cell E = 1.247 V
(b) The use of very high resistance of 600 kΩ is to allow a very small
current through the galvanometer when it is too far from the
balance point.
(c) No, the balance point is not affected by high resistance of 600 kΩ.
(d) No, the balance point is not affected by the internal resistance of
the driver cell.
(e) If the emf of driver cell is less than the driver cell, the method
cannot work.
(f) No, the circuit does not work well for determining an extremely
small emf of millivolt because in this situation, the balance point is
very near to end A. To modify, we use high resistance in series with
the cell. This decreases the current in the potential wire. So, the
potential gradient decreases.
Question 23. Figure shows a
potentiometer circuit for comparison of
two resistances. The balance point with a
standard resistor R = 10.0 Ω is found to be A B
58.3 cm, while that with the unknown
resistance X is 68.5 cm. Determine the G
value of X. What might you do if you failed R
to find a balance point with the given cell
X
of emf ε ?
Solution Here, l1 = 58.3 cm, l2 = 68.5 cm, ε
R = 10 Ω, X = ?
 NCERT Class XII Physics Solutions 97

Let I be the current in the potentiometer wire and E1 and E2 be the

potential drops across R and X respectively.
Then,
E2 I X X
= =
E1 I R R
E2
or X = ⋅R …(i)
E1
According to the principle of potentiometer,
E2 l2
=
E1 l1
From Eq. (i), we get
l2 68.5
X = ⋅R = × 10 = 11.75 Ω
l1 58.3
If we failed to find a balance point with the given cell of emf E, it means
the potential drop across R or X is greater than the potential drop across
potentiometer wire. It may be possible that voltage across driver cell is
less than that of emf ε.
Question 24. Figure shows a 2.0 V 2.0 V
potentiometer used for the determination
of internal resistance of a 1.5 V cell. The
balance point of the cell in open-circuit is
76.3 cm. When a resistor of 9.5 Ω is used in A
B
the external circuit of the cell, the balance
point shifts to 64.8 cm length of the 1.5 V G
potentiometer wire. Determine the G
internal resistance of the cell.
Solution Here, balancing length when 9.5 Ω
cell is in open-circuit,
l1 = 76.3 cm
Balancing length when cell is in closed-circuit,
l2 = 64.8 cm
and resistance R = 9.5 Ω
The internal resistance of the cell is given by
l 
r =  1 − 1 R
 l2 
 76.3 
= − 1 × 9.5 = 1.68 Ω
 64.8 
The internal resistance of the cell is 1.68 Ω.
98 www.arihantbooks.com

Selected NCERT Exemplar Problems

Question 1. The relaxation time τ is nearly independent of applied E
field whereas it changes significantly with temperature T, first fact is (in
part) responsible for Ohm’s law whereas the second fact leads to variation
of P with temperature. Elaborate why?
Solution The relaxation time depends on the velocity of electrons or
ions. As we know that an application of electric field, it affects the
velocities of electrons as they move in particular direction. But on the
application of electric field, the speed of electrons differ by 1 mm/s which
is very small and thus it is an insignificant effect. As we change the
temperature T, the velocity of electrons changes by large amount as
100 m/s. Thus, it is an significant effect that relaxation time changes with
change in temperature.
Question 2. AB is a potentiometer wire E R
(see figure). If the value of R is increased, in
which direction will the balance point J
shift? J
A
Solution As the value of R increased, the B
current flowing in the circuit will decrease. G
And the potential gradient i.e., potential
drop per unit length also decreases so that
the balance length will increase. Thus, J will shift towards B.
Question 3. Two cells of voltages 10 V E R
D
and 2 V and internal resistances 10 Ω and
5 Ω respectively, are connected in parallel I 2
with the positive end of 10 V battery 2V 5Ω
connected to negative pole of 2 V battery F C
I2
(see figure). Find the effective voltage and
effective resistance of the combination. 1

Use Kirchhoff’s Ist law ( ΣI = 0 ) and IInd

law ( ΣE = ΣIR). A I1 10 Ω
B
10 V
Solution Use the Kirchhoff ’s Ist law, i. e., junction law at point F.
ΣI = 0
I1 = I2 + I …(i)
Use Kirchhoff ’s second law in mesh AFCBA
ΣE = ΣiR
10 + 2 = 10 I1 + 5 I2
12 = 10 I1 + 5 I2 …(ii)
Use Kirchhoff ’s second law in mesh CDEFC
ΣE = ΣIR
2 = 5 I2 − IR …(iii)
 NCERT Class XII Physics Solutions 99

From Eq. (i), we get I2 = I1 − I

Putting in Eq. (ii), we get 12 = 10 I1 + 5 (I1 − I) = 15 I1 − 5 I
12 + 5 I
= I1
15
12 + 5 I 12 − 10 I
Putting in Eq. (i), we get I2 = I1 − I = −I=
15 15
Putting the value of I2 in Eq. (iii), we get
12 − 10 I 
2 =5  − IR
 15 
12 − 10 I 12 − 10 I − 3 IR
2= − IR=
3 3
10 + 3 R
2 =4− I
 3 
10 
 + R I = 2 …(iv)
3 
Now, comparing it with Veff = (R + Reff ) I
Veff = 2 V
10
Reff = Ω
3
The circuit becomes
R

Veff Reff

Question 4. (a) Consider circuit in given figure. R=6Ω

How much energy is absorbed by electrons from
the initial state of no current (ignore thermal I

motion) to the state of drift velocity?

(b) Electrons give up energy at the rate of RI 2 per V=6V
second to the thermal energy. What time scale
would one associate with energy in problem (a)?
Given, n = number of electrons per volume = 10 29 /m 3 , length of
circuit = 10 cm, cross-section A = 1 mm 2 .
Solution (a) Given, V = 6 V, R = 6 Ω, A = 1 × 10− 6 m2
and l = 10 cm = 0.1 m
V 6
The current in the circuit, I = = =1A
R 6
Use the relation I = ne A v d
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Drift velocity of electrons,

I 1 1
vd = = = × 10− 4 m/s
neA 1029 × 1.6 × 10− 19 × 1 × 10− 6 1.6
1
The energy of electrons, (KE) = mv2
2
1
= × me × v d × Volume × Number of electrons per volume
2
2
2
1 10− 4 
= × 9.1 × 10− 31 ×   ×A×l×n
2  1.6 
[QMass of electron me = 9.1 × 10− 31]
− 39
9.1 × 10
= × 10− 6 × 0.1 × 1029 = 2 × 10− 17 J
2 × 1.6 × 1.6
(b) Energy loss in the circuit = I2 R = 12 × 6 = 6 J/s
All of the KE of electrons lost
Total KE
=
Energy loss per second
2 × 10− 17
= = 3.33 × 10− 18 s
6