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dasblack
Feb3-09, 01:15 AM
1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
You would like to check if the battery voltage drops while it is supplying a current of 6A. You use a voltmeter designed to measure voltages up to 20V and having a resistance of 50,000 Ohms. Which of the two circuits below should be used?
a.) How much current (in A) would flow through the headlight for Circuit a?
b). How much current (in A) would flow through the headlight for Circuit b?

http://i336.photobucket.com/albums/n323/dasblack/OA-Voltmeter.jpg



2. Relevant equations
delta(V) = IR


3. The attempt at a solution

Circuit a should be used because it has the least resistance.

a.) I = 12/50000 = 2.4e-4
b.) I = 12/50000 = 2.4e-4

Carid
Feb3-09, 03:39 AM
Before putting the voltmeter into the circuit the current passing in the headlight is 6 amps.
What is the resistance of the headlight?
How does that compare to the resistance of the voltmeter?

The purpose of a voltmeter is to measure a voltage while actually disturbing that voltage as little as possible. Voltmeters are designed to draw as little current as possible.

Now consider which diagram is appropriate.