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Electricity & Heat (Edexcel IGCSE Physics)

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Katie M

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Katie M

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Edexcel PhysicsEdexcel Science (Double Award): Physics

Electricity & heat

  • A current passing through a resistor (or wire) results in the electrical transfer of energy

  • The temperature of a resistor increases due to the collisions of the free electrons within the wire

  • Some of the energy is dissipated into the surroundings by heating

  • This heating effect is utilised in many domestic contexts, including:

    • Electric heaters

    • Electric ovens

    • Electric hob

    • Toasters

    • Kettles

Heating a pan on an electrical hob

heating-downloadable-as-and-a-level-physics-revision-notes

The heating effect of current can be used for many applications such as electric hobs

Examiner Tips and Tricks

Remember that a charge moving around an electrical circuit are an example of an electrical transfer pathway. If you are unsure of how to explain energy stores and transfers use the Energy stores & transfers revision note to help. 

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    Katie M

    Author: Katie M

    Expertise: Physics

    Katie has always been passionate about the sciences, and completed a degree in Astrophysics at Sheffield University. She decided that she wanted to inspire other young people, so moved to Bristol to complete a PGCE in Secondary Science. She particularly loves creating fun and absorbing materials to help students achieve their exam potential.