A student performed an experiment to investigate how the resistance of a metallic conductor changes with temperature - Leaving Cert Physics - Question 4 - 2020

The instrument used to measure temperature is a thermometer, specifically a temperature probe.

The student changed the temperature of the metallic conductor by placing it in a liquid that can conduct heat, such as water, or by using a source of heat.

To plot the graph:

1. Label the x-axis as 'Temperature (°C)' and the y-axis as 'Resistance (Ω)'.
2. Plot the points with coordinates (10, 4.8), (20, 5.4), (30, 6.0), (40, 6.6), (50, 7.2), (60, 7.8), and (70, 8.4).
3. Ensure that each point is plotted accurately and correctly scaled on the axes.
4. Draw a straight line to connect the points, indicating a linear relationship.

The relationship between resistance and temperature is directly proportional, meaning as the temperature of the metallic conductor increases, its resistance also increases. This is due to the increased thermal agitation of atoms within the conductor, which impedes the flow of electrons.

One safety precaution the student should have taken is to avoid the risk of burns by handling hot materials with appropriate protective equipment, such as gloves or tongs.