Physics - 12th Science Activity- 3

AIM: - To draw the diagram of a given open circuit comprising at least a battery, resistor/rheostat,

key, ammeter and voltmeter. Mark the components that are not connected in proper order and

correct the circuit and also the circuit diagram.

Requirement: - Battery, resistor, rheostat, key, ammeter and voltmeter.

Theory: -

(a) Voltmeter is always connected in parallel with the point across which potential difference is to

be measured.

(b) Ammeter is always connected in series with the circuit.

(c) While connecting ammeter and voltmeter, + ve should be connected to the + ve side of the

battery.

Procedure: - The circuit diagram as shown in figure.

Procedure: -
(a) Let us examine the given circuit diagram. It can be seen that this circuit diagram suffers from
the following drawbacks: always connected in parallel and the ammeter is series.
(b) The +ve terminal of the battery is connected to the –ve of the voltmeter instead of the +ve.
(c) The +ve of the battery is connectged to the –ve terminal of the \ammeter instead of the +ve.
(d) Due to these faulty connections the above circuit will not respond.
(e) Redraw the circuit diagram by interchanging the position of the ammeter and voltmeter. Also,
change the polarities so that +ve of the battery is connected to the +ve of the voltmeter and
ammeter as shown in figure. Such a circuit, on being closed will respond and the voltmeter
and ammeter readings can be varied.

You will now find the voltmeter and ammeter respond when the knob of rheostat is moved.