Simple Circuits AP Physics 2 MCQ – Exam Style Questions etc.
Simple Circuits AP Physics 2 MCQ
Unit 11: Electric Circuits
Weightage : 15–18%
Exam Style Practice Questions , Simple Circuits AP Physics 2 MCQ
QUESTIONS (A)–(C) ARE BASED ON THE FOLLOWING CIRCUIT:
Question(A)
What is the equivalent resistance of the circuit?
(A) 6 Ω
(B) 8 Ω
(C) 11 Ω
(D) 5 Ω
▶️Answer/Explanation
Ans:(D)
The two 2 Ω resistors are in series with each other: 2 Ω + 2 Ω = 4 Ω. This 4 Ω equivalent resistance is in parallel with the existing 4 Ω resistor: ¼ Ω + ¼ Ω = ½ Ω. So the equivalent resistance for that section of the circuit is 2 Ω. This 2 Ω equivalent resistance is in series with the 3 Ω resistor: 2 Ω + 3 Ω = 5 Ω.
Question(B)
What is the reading of the voltmeter across the 4-ohm resistor?
(A) 3 V
(B) 9 V
(C) 12 V
(D) 6 V
▶️Answer/Explanation
Ans:(D) The 15 volts must be split between the 3-ohm resistor and the 2-ohm equivalent resistance of the right-hand side (see answer 23). Voltage for the 4-ohm resistor is the same as the voltage across the 2-ohm equivalent resistance of the right-hand side:
V = (2/5)(15 V) = 6 V
Question(C)
What is the current through the leftmost 2-ohm resistor?
(A) 3 A
(B) 1.5 A
(C) 0.75 A
(D) 1 A
▶️Answer/Explanation
Ans:(B) The 15-volt battery will supply 3 amps of current for the 5-ohm circuit:
V = IR
15 V = (3A)(5 ohm)
This 3-amp current will split as it comes to the branching point before the 4-ohm resistor. Since both pathways have equal resistance (4 ohms), the current will split evenly: 1.5 amps.