Answers to AQA GCSE Circuit Symbols

Practice Questions

1.Explain the difference between a cell and a battery.

A cell is a single unit, battery is made up of multiple cells. 

2. Describe the role of the switch in a circuit

Switch is closed to complete the circuit, or opened to make the circuit incomplete.

3. Should a voltmeter be wired in series or parallel?

Parallel

4. Should an ammeter be wired in series or parallel?

Series

5. What does a diode do in a circuit?

Diode only allows current to flow in one direction. In one direction there is a high resistance which prevents the current flowing in this direction. In the other direction, there is a low resistance, allowing the current to flow.

6. What is a thermistor used for?

Thermistor is a temperature dependent resistor. As the temperature of the thermistor increases, the resistance decreases, allowing a greater current to flow.