Why do we convert a galvanometer into voltmeter and ammeter?

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of a galvanometer in Melde's experiment and its conversion into a voltmeter and ammeter. The purpose of this exercise is to demonstrate how electric circuits work and the limitations of measuring equipment. It also highlights the need for understanding the influence of the measuring technique on the results obtained.
  • #1
anam89
17
0
why we convert a galvanometer into voltmeter and ammeter?
 
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  • #2
melde's experiment

why we use a vibrator in melde's experiment?
please explain whole circuit?
 
  • #3
anam89 said:
why we convert a galvanometer into voltmeter and ammeter?

So you can measure voltage and current.
 
  • #4
TVP45 said:
So you can measure voltage and current.

it can be done by a voltmeter and ammeter...then why we need to convert a galvanometer into "voltmeter" and " ammeter".
 
  • #5
anam89 said:
it can be done by a voltmeter and ammeter...then why we need to convert a galvanometer into "voltmeter" and " ammeter".

I am guessing that you encounter this in a physics class.

The reason why students are asked to do this is more pedagogical in nature, i.e. it is another illustrations of how electric circuits work. But there is also another very important aspect to this exercise. It tells you that these equipments are not "perfect" equipments. when you are measuring the potential difference, for example, you expect that your "meter" itself doesn't affect your measurement. But constructing a voltmeter using a galvanometer and another resistor shows you that there is a range of values for the impedence of the circuit in which your equipment can make an accurate-enough determination. If the impedence of the circuit you are measuring starts to approach the internal resistance of your voltmeter, then your measurement will start to go wrong very quickly.

We need to always be aware if what we measure is what we're supposed to get with minimal influence from our measuring technique. At the very least, we need to know how our measuring technique is affecting what we measure. I'd say that this is one of the first introduction to this aspect of science that a student can get.

Zz.
 

1. Why do we convert a galvanometer into a voltmeter?

A galvanometer is a device used to measure small electrical currents. By converting it into a voltmeter, we can measure the voltage of a circuit, which is a more useful and practical measurement for most applications.

2. How is a galvanometer converted into a voltmeter?

A galvanometer is converted into a voltmeter by adding a high resistance in series with it. This resistance is known as a shunt resistor and it allows the galvanometer to measure larger currents without being damaged.

3. Why do we need to convert a galvanometer into an ammeter?

Similar to converting a galvanometer into a voltmeter, converting it into an ammeter allows us to measure larger currents. This is achieved by placing a low resistance in parallel with the galvanometer, known as a multiplier resistor.

4. What is the purpose of converting a galvanometer into a voltmeter and ammeter?

The purpose of converting a galvanometer into a voltmeter and ammeter is to make it more versatile and suitable for different types of measurements. By adding resistance in series or parallel, we can change the range and sensitivity of the galvanometer to measure different quantities.

5. Can a galvanometer be used as a voltmeter or ammeter without converting it?

No, a galvanometer cannot be used as a voltmeter or ammeter without converting it. This is because it is designed to measure small currents and does not have the necessary resistance to measure larger currents or voltage. Converting it with the appropriate resistors allows it to be used as a voltmeter or ammeter.

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