When the terminals of a cell are connected to a conductor of resistance R, an electric current flows through the circuit. The electrolyte of the cell also offers some resistance in the path of the current, like the conductor. This resistance offered by the electrolyte is called internal resistance of the cell (r). It depends upon the nature of the electrolyte, the area of the electrodes immersed in the electrolyte and the temperature. Due to internal resistance, a part of the energy supplied by the cell is wasted in the form of heat. When no current is drawn from the cell, the potential difference between the two electrodes in known as emf of the cell (ε). With a current drawn from the cell, the potential difference between the two electrodes is termed as terminal potential difference (V).
A cell is connected across an external resistance 12 Ω and supplies 0.25 A current. When the external resistance is increased by 4 Ω, the current reduces to 0.2 A. Calculate (i) the emf, and (ii) the internal resistance, of the cell.
Write two differences between the emf and terminal potential difference of a cell. What is the most important precaution that one should take while drawing current from a cell ?
A cell emf of (E) and internal resistance (r) is connected across a variable load resistance (R). Draw plots showing the variation of terminal voltage V with (i) R and (ii) the current (I) in the load.
A cell of emf E and internal resistance r is connected to a variable resistance R. Draw plots showing the variation of (a) terminal voltage V with R, and (b) V with current I, in the circuit.
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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