what is the purpose of a switch in a circuit
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HESI A2

HESI Exams Quizlet Physics

1. What is the purpose of a switch in a circuit?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The purpose of a switch in a circuit is to allow the circuit to open and close. When the switch is turned on, it provides a complete path for the current to flow through the circuit. When the switch is turned off, it breaks the circuit, stopping the flow of current. This function of opening and closing the circuit using a switch is essential for controlling the flow of electricity in various electrical devices and systems. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because a switch does not reverse the direction of current, increase voltage, or increase resistance in a circuit; its primary function is to open and close the circuit.

2. When a charged particle moves through a vacuum at a constant speed, it generates:

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A moving charged particle generates both an electric field and a magnetic field. The electric field is due to the charge itself, and the magnetic field is produced by the motion of the charge. Choice A is incorrect because a moving charged particle also generates a magnetic field. Choice B is incorrect because a moving charged particle generates both electric and magnetic fields. Choice D is incorrect as a moving charged particle generates fields due to its charge and motion.

3. The frequency of an alternating current (AC) refers to the number of times it changes direction per unit time. This is measured in:

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The frequency of an alternating current (AC) is measured in Hertz (Hz), which denotes the number of times the current changes direction per unit time. Hertz is the unit for frequency, while amperes measure current, volts measure voltage, and ohms measure resistance. Therefore, the correct answer is Hertz (Hz). Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because amperes measure current intensity, volts measure voltage potential, and ohms measure resistance, not the frequency of an alternating current.

4. The operating principle of a metal detector relies on:

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Metal detectors work based on the principle of electromotive force induced by a changing magnetic field. When a metal object comes into contact with the detector's magnetic field, it disrupts the field, inducing a current in the metal that can be detected. This principle allows metal detectors to identify the presence of metallic objects without relying on the static presence of a permanent magnet, the high electrical conductivity of metals, or the thermal signature of the objects. Choice A is incorrect because metal detectors do not rely on a static magnet but on the interaction of metals with a changing magnetic field. Choice C is incorrect because while metals do have high electrical conductivity, this is not the principle underlying metal detectors. Choice D is incorrect because metal detectors do not operate based on the thermal signature of objects, but rather on their interaction with magnetic fields.

5. Which of the following describes a vector quantity?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A vector quantity is characterized by both magnitude and direction. In the provided options, choice A, '5 miles per hour due southwest,' fits this definition as it includes both the magnitude (5 miles per hour) and the direction (southwest), making it a vector quantity. Choices B and C only provide the magnitude without indicating any direction, hence they do not represent vector quantities.

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