To verify the laws of combination of resistances (series and parallel) using a metre bridge.

AIM

To verify the laws of combination of resistances (series and parallel) using a metre bridge.

APPARATUS AND MATERIAL REQUIRED

A metre bridge, a sensitive galvanometer, two different resistances (carbon or wire-wound resistors),
a resistance box, a jockey, a rheostat, a plug key, a cell or battery eliminator, thick connecting wires
and a piece of sandpaper.

PRINCIPLE
When two resistances R1 and R2 are connected in series, the resistance of the combination RS is
given by

RS = R1 + R2

When connected in parallel, the resistance

RP of the combination is given by

1 1
RP = 𝑅1 + 𝑅2

PROCEDURE

1. Make two unknown resistance wires R1 and R2.

2. To find the unknown resistance R1 set up a circuit as shown in figure.

3.Tighten all plugs in the resistance box (RBOX) by rotating and pressing each plug
to ensure that all plugs make good electrical contacts. Clean the ends of connecting
wires using sandpaper before making the connections.

4. Remove some plug(s) from the resistance box to get a suitable value of resistance
R. Obtain the null point D on the metre bridge wire by sliding the jockey between
ends A and C as was done in Experiment 2

5. Repeat the experiment for four more values of resistances R. Obtain the mean
value of unknown resistance R1.
6. Repeat the above procedure with unknown resistance R2, series combination of
R1 and R2 and parallel combinations of R1 and R2

RESULT
Within limits of experimental error, theoretical and experimental values of Rs are the
same. Hence, the law of resistance in series is verified.

PRECAUTIONS
1. The connections should be neat, clean and tight.
2. Thick copper wires should be used for the connections after removing the
insulations near their ends by rubbing with sandpaper.
3. Voltmeter and ammeter should be of proper range.
4. The key should be inserted only while taking observations to avoid heating of
resistance (otherwise its resistance will increase).

CIRCUIT DIAGRAM
OBSERVATIONS AND CALCULATIONS

Resistance Sl.No Resistance(R) Balancing DC=100-l Unknown Mean

(Resistance Box) Length AD Resistance Resistance
(l) (100−𝑙) 𝑅 (OHM)
𝑙

1
R1 only R1=
2

1
R2 Only R2=
2

1
R1 and R2 in Rs=
Series 2

1
R1 and R2 in Rp=
Parallel 2

In Series:

Experimental Value =
Theoretical Value =
Difference =

In Parallel

Experimental Value =
Theoretical Value =
Difference =