Internal resistance of a digital multimeter

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around estimating the internal resistance of a digital multimeter (DMM) by connecting a 10 MΩ resistor in series with it and measuring the voltage in a circuit containing a DC black box. The logic behind using the 10 MΩ resistor is to ensure that the DMM does not draw significant current, allowing for a more accurate measurement. Participants note that when resistances are in parallel, the total resistance decreases, which is crucial for understanding the circuit's behavior. The overall resistance can be calculated using the formula for parallel resistances, but the exact role of the 10 MΩ resistor remains unclear to some. Understanding this setup is essential for accurately determining the DMM's internal resistance.
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Homework Statement



Provided that the input resistance of the DMM is
much larger than the resistance values in the circuit to
which it is connected, the DMM will not draw a
significant current. Estimate the input resistance of the
DMM by connecting the 10 M resistor supplied in
series with it and noting the voltage reading when
this series combination is connected to your DC black
box. Explain clearly the logic of doing this.

Basically I have a simple circuit with a DC black box which is a box with a 1.5V battery and three resistors (1 in series and 2 in parallel) and I have a digital multimeter that I have to estimate its internal resistance by connecting a 10 MΩ resistor to the circuit in series with the multimeter. I can't really think of why connecting such a large resistor would help determine the internal resistance.

The Attempt at a Solution



I haven't been able to come up with an answer because first I need to understand the role of the 10 MΩ resistor.
 
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Draw the meter as a meter + a 1M resistor in series.
Now connect a 10M resistor across the meter inputs.

What do you know about resitances in parallel
 
mgb_phys said:
Draw the meter as a meter + a 1M resistor in series.
Now connect a 10M resistor across the meter inputs.

What do you know about resitances in parallel

First of all, I appreciate your post.

Well, for resistances in parallel we know that the overall resistance will be smaller than any individual resistance. so in this case 1 / R = 1 / R_s + 1 / R_p where R_s is the series resistor and R_p is the parallel resistor. so R = 0.9M, roughly. I still don't get why the 10M resistor is needed.
 
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