Electrical Conductivity of Materials Worksheet

Question 1

Which particles can carry current through a solid piece of copper?

1. Mobile electrons
2. Copper nuclei leaving the material
3. Neutrons moving freely between atoms
4. Only molecules of water

Question 2

Explain why dissolving an ionic salt in water can allow it to conduct even if the dry crystal conducts poorly.

Write your answer and work on the printable worksheet, or answer online.

Question 3

Which control helps isolate the effect of material on measured current?

1. Use the same sample length and cross-sectional area.
2. Use a different voltage for every sample.
3. Measure a different length for every material.
4. Change the temperature after each reading.

Question 4

Explain why an insulating outer coating can be useful even when a wire’s inner material must conduct.

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Question 5

Which pair meets the stated requirements for a core and a jacket, respectively?

1. P and S
2. Q and R
3. R and Q
4. S and P

Question 6

Identify every eligible core and support the answer with the data.

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Question 7

By how much does S exceed the maximum allowed current for a jacket?

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Question 8

If the core now needs at least 80 mA, which piece still qualifies as a core?

1. P only
2. Q only
3. P and Q
4. R and S