Chapter 4: Problem 19
(a) What resistance would you put in parallel with a \(40.0-\Omega\) galvanometer having a \(25.0-\mu \mathrm{A}\) sensitivity to allow it to be used as an ammeter that has a full-scale deflection for \(10.0-\mu \mathrm{A} ?\) (b) What is unreasonable about this result? (c) Which assumptions are responsible?
Short Answer
Step by step solution
Identify the problem and necessary formula
Calculate potential difference across the galvanometer
Use potential difference to solve for resistance
Check for reasonableness of the result
Identify unreasonable assumptions
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Ammeter Conversion
The key steps in this conversion process include understanding the original full-scale deflection current of the galvanometer and determining the new desired full-scale deflection current for the ammeter configuration. This involves calculating the appropriate shunt resistance using the equation for parallel resistors in the circuit. By correctly calculating this resistance, you ensure that the galvanometer can accurately measure larger currents without exceeding its design limits.
Full-scale Deflection
When converting a galvanometer into an ammeter, the new full-scale deflection needs to be set. This involves calculating a suitable shunt resistor that allows the galvanometer to read correctly at the lower specified full-scale deflection, in the exercise given as 10.0 microamperes. Full-scale deflection setups are crucial for ensuring that the ammeter provides accurate measurements over the expected range of current.
Parallel Resistors
The formula for finding the equivalent resistance of two resistors in parallel (\( R_{\text{eff}} \)) is:\[R_{\text{eff}} = \left( \frac{1}{R_1} + \frac{1}{R_2} \right)^{-1}\]Here, \( R_1 \) could represent the galvanometer's resistance, and \( R_2 \) would be the unknown shunt resistance. The effective resistance decreases, allowing more current to pass through the ammeter without overwhelming the galvanometer's capacity.
This principle allows the galvanometer to handle larger currents, effectively turning it into an ammeter capable of measuring higher currents without exceeding the device's limit.
Electric Current Sensitivity
In the exercise, the galvanometer is described as having a sensitivity of 25.0 \( \mu A \). This implies that when exactly this current flows through the galvanometer, it reaches its maximum deflection point, beyond which it shouldn't go to avoid damage. Adjusting the sensitivity is essential when converting to an ammeter. The objective is to lower the current needed to achieve full-scale deflection, typically by recalibrating with a parallel resistor.
Understanding this sensitivity helps in designing the correct shunt resistor that will enable the galvanometer to function effectively as an ammeter, tailored to specific measurement needs.