Why does resistance increase with temperature?

So, when an electrical charge passes through a resistor, some of that electrical energy is transferred into heat, increasing the temperature. This extra energy causes the particles in the resistor to vibrate more. With these particles moving more, it is more difficult to for the electrons to move through the resistor. This means the current can't flow as easily and the resistance increases. 

FF
Answered by Fergus F. Physics tutor

48478 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How fast are geostationary satellites moving?


Explain what terminal velocity means.


A jug containing 0.250 kg of liquid is put into a refrigerator. Its temperature decreased from 20°C to 15°C. The amount of energy transferred from the liquid was 5,250 J. Calculate the specific heat capacity of the liquid.


Why is light refracted when it crosses from air to glass?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning