Chapter 15 Question 3
 
a. Explain how a galvanometer can be adapted to measure
i)    larger current.
6 marks
 
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A galvanometer can be adapted to measure large current by connecting a small resistance (shunt) in parallel. 
When a large current flows through the combination, only a small fraction flows through the galvanometer causing deflection. 1
ii)     voltage  
 
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A galvanometer can be adapted to measure voltage by connecting a large resistance (multiplier) in series.
When a large voltage is applied across the combination, only a small fraction is applied across the galvanometer. 1
 
iii)     resistance.  
 
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Before the circuit in (a) is used to measure resistance, the input terminals P and Q are shorted. Then Z is adjusted to give full scale deflection.
When an unknown resistor R is connected across PQ, the current decreases. The deflection depends on the resistance R.
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b. Sketch a diagram to show the principle of a multimeter. 4 marks
 
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c. With the aid of a diagram, explain how a potentiometer can be used to 
i)    measure the internal resistance of a cell
6 marks
 
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With S open, the potentiometer measures the e.m.f. x. Suppose the balance length is l1.
With S closed, the potentiometer measures the terminal voltage, V. Suppose the balance length is l2.
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Let r be the internal resistance and R be the known resistor.
From (1) and (4), we have
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ii)     calibrate a voltmeter.  
 
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By varying R, the voltage across the voltmeter is changed. This voltage is correctly indicated by the potentiometer. Thus, the voltmeter can be calibrated. 1
 
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