Poligraph tests test resistance or conductance?

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SUMMARY

A polygraph test measures both skin resistance and conductance, as they are fundamentally related concepts. Resistance (R), measured in Ohms, and conductance (G), measured in Siemens, are inversely proportional, defined by the equation R = 1/G. Understanding this relationship is crucial for interpreting polygraph results accurately. The discussion emphasizes the importance of grasping the underlying principles rather than relying solely on memorization.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of electrical concepts, specifically resistance and conductance.
  • Familiarity with the units of measurement: Ohms and Siemens.
  • Knowledge of the relationship between resistance and conductance (R = 1/G).
  • Introductory psychology concepts related to physiological responses.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the physiological basis of polygraph testing and its reliability.
  • Explore the mathematical relationship between resistance and conductance in detail.
  • Learn about the applications of polygraph tests in psychology and law enforcement.
  • Investigate alternative methods for measuring physiological responses in psychological assessments.
USEFUL FOR

Psychology students, researchers in physiological psychology, and professionals interested in the mechanics of polygraph testing will benefit from this discussion.

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Homework Statement


Question: "What does a polygraph test measure; skin resistance or conductance?"

To me this is two sides of the same coin and it seems it must be measuring both.

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


I thought that the person is acting as a resistor so I wrote down resistance, but the answer is conductance. I could just memorise the answer but I would like to understand why.

I'm a psychology student so please speak slowly and without assuming any basic knowledge.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You are correct, it is technically two sides of the same coin. Resistance and conductance are related as R = 1/G, where R is resistance (measured in units of Ohms) and G is conductance measured in units of Siemens, and 1 Siemen is 1/(1 Ohm).

In fields outside of pure physics or electronics, there is sometimes a tendency to make the "correct" answer one that is learned by wrote from the textbook.
 

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