An ammeter is connected at three different positions in a series circuit with three resistors: before the first resistor, between the first and second, and after the third. What would the three ammeter readings be? What conclusion can you draw about current in a series combination?
Generated by claude-sonnet-4-6 · 2026-06-26 01:07 · grounding rag
Model Answer
All three ammeter readings will be the same.
Whether the ammeter is placed before the first resistor, between any two resistors, or after the third, it shows the same value of current.
Conclusion: In a series combination of resistors, the current is the same in every part of the circuit, i.e., the same current flows through each resistor.
Source: Chapter 11, Section 11.6.1 – Resistors in Series
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Explanation
- The examiner expects you to state the reading (equal/same) and give the conclusion as a clear statement — both parts carry marks.
- The key phrase to use is "current is the same in every part of the circuit" — this is the exact language from the textbook (Activity 11.4).
- Do not confuse this with voltage, which is different across each resistor in series.