Question 1: Define 'IV characteristics' in the context of electrical components.

Answer: IV characteristics describe the relationship between the current flowing through a component and the voltage across it, illustrating how the component responds to different voltages.

Question 2: Explain why understanding the IV curve of a photovoltaic cell is important for solar energy applications related to climate change.

Answer: Understanding the IV curve helps determine the maximum power output of the solar cell, ensuring efficient energy conversion and helping to optimise renewable energy systems to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Question 1: A photovoltaic panel produces a voltage of 0.6 V at a current of 5 A under standard test conditions. Calculate the power output of the panel in watts. Use the formula Power = Voltage × Current.

Answer: Power = 0.6 V × 5 A = 3 Watts

Question 2: A resistor used in a device for climate monitoring has an IV characteristic where the current at 12 V is 2 A. If the voltage increases to 15 V, estimate the new current assuming the resistor remains ohmic. Show your working.

Answer: Current at 12 V = 2 A, Resistance R = V/I = 12 V / 2 A = 6 Ω. At 15 V, current I = V / R = 15 V / 6 Ω = 2.5 A.

Question 1: Describe a simple experiment to investigate how the IV characteristic of a solar panel changes with light intensity, including variables to control and safety precautions.

Answer: Students can set up a solar panel with a voltmeter and ammeter to measure voltage and current at different light intensities, which can be varied using a lamp or moving the panel closer to a light source. Variables to control include the distance from the light source, angle of the panel, and environmental conditions. Safety precautions include avoiding direct eye exposure to bright lights and ensuring electrical connections are insulated to prevent shocks.

Question 1: A wind turbine's generator exhibits an IV characteristic where the current decreases as the load resistance increases beyond a certain point. Explain how this behaviour impacts the efficiency of wind turbines in renewable energy systems aimed at reducing carbon emissions.

Answer: This behaviour indicates that the turbine's generator has an optimal load resistance for maximum power output. Operating beyond this point results in decreased current and power, reducing efficiency. Understanding this IV characteristic helps in designing wind turbines and load systems that maximise energy extraction, thereby improving renewable energy contribution to mitigating climate change.