Physics A-Level
Current–voltage characteristics
What Current–voltage characteristics means in Physics A-Level, as defined for OCR.
Definition of Current–voltage characteristics
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Current–voltage characteristics in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
The current–voltage graph of a component, which is a straight line through the origin for an ohmic conductor but curves for a filament lamp.
Topics that use Current–voltage characteristics
- Resistance (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- Circuit design for measurement
- Component protection
- Data logging and graphing
- Forward and reverse bias
- Graph interpretation
- Light intensity as a variable
- Non-ohmic behaviour
- Ohm’s law
Using Current–voltage characteristics in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Physics questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Physics A-Level termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge