Question 1: Define electric current and explain its role in consumer electronic devices.

Answer: Electric current is the flow of electric charge through a conductor, enabling devices like smartphones and laptops to operate by providing the necessary energy.

Question 2: Describe how the current flowing through a household kettle affects its heating element.

Answer: The current heats the resistive element in the kettle, converting electrical energy into heat, which then boils the water.

Question 1: What is the typical unit of electric current, and what does it measure?

Answer: The unit is the ampere (A), which measures the rate of flow of electric charge per second.

Question 2: Explain why electronic devices have a maximum current rating and what could happen if this is exceeded.

Answer: Devices have a maximum current rating to prevent overheating and damage; exceeding this current can cause components to fail or pose safety hazards.

Question 1: A smartphone charger supplies a voltage of 5 V and delivers a current of 2 A. Calculate the power consumption of the charger in watts.

Answer: Power = Voltage x Current = 5 V x 2 A = 10 W

Question 2: A laptop operates at 19 V and has a current of 3.5 A. What is the resistance of its power supply circuit?

Answer: Resistance = Voltage / Current = 19 V / 3.5 A ≈ 5.43 Ω

Question 1: Outline the key variables you would consider when designing a circuit for a portable LED flashlight.

Answer: Variables include voltage source, current limiting resistor, LED specifications, battery capacity, circuit safety measures, and ensuring components are rated for the expected current and voltage.

Question 1: A smart home device draws a current of 0.5 A when operating. The device is powered by a 12 V supply. Calculate the power consumption and discuss how variations in current could affect device performance.

Answer: Power = Voltage x Current = 12 V x 0.5 A = 6 W. If the current increases significantly, it could lead to overheating or damage; if it decreases, the device may not function properly.

Question 1: Explain how current regulation in a device like a smartphone protects its internal components, and what might happen if the current exceeds safe limits.

Answer: Current regulation prevents excessive current flow, protecting components from overheating and damage. If current exceeds safe limits, it can cause component failure, reduce device lifespan, or pose safety hazards.

Question 2: Multiple Choice: Which of the following best describes the effect of increasing the current supplied to a resistive heating element in a consumer device?

Answer: B) The temperature of the element increases

Question 1: Discuss the importance of current limiting devices, such as fuses or circuit breakers, in consumer electronics.

Answer: Current limiting devices protect circuits from excessive current that could cause overheating, fires, or component damage. They act as safety measures to prevent accidents and ensure device longevity.