The value of a real-world resistor ______ changes with significant time as the resistor conducts a current.

never
rarely
sometimes
usually

I think either never or rarely, but I'm not sure. When you unplug the resistor, the Ammeter and Voltmeter reading goes down to 0 because you disrupt the electrical current, but I don't know in regards to this question.

Thanks you for your help!

The value of a real-world resistor sometimes changes with significant time as the resistor conducts a current. In general, resistors are designed to have a stable resistance value that remains constant over time. However, due to various factors such as aging, temperature changes, and mechanical stress, the resistance of a real-world resistor can change to some extent.

Over time, temperature changes can cause the resistance of a resistor to increase or decrease. This is known as temperature drift. Additionally, prolonged exposure to high temperatures or high currents can lead to a permanent change in resistance, known as thermal stress.

Another factor that can cause resistance to change is mechanical stress. When a resistor is subjected to mechanical stress, such as from vibrations or physical deformation, its resistance can vary.

It's important to note that the changes in resistance for most everyday applications are typically very small and may not be noticeable. Moreover, manufacturers usually provide specifications for the maximum allowed variation in resistance over a given period of time.

In the specific scenario you mentioned, where you unplug the resistor, the ammeter and voltmeter readings indeed go down to zero. However, this is because the electrical current is no longer flowing, not because of any change in resistance.

In summary, while the value of a real-world resistor usually remains constant, it can sometimes change with significant time due to factors like temperature drift and mechanical stress.