Question

How does a voltmeter differ from an ammeter?

Answer 1

A voltmeter and an ammeter are both measuring instruments, but they are used to measure different electrical quantities:

1. Voltmeter:
   

   - Measures Voltage (Potential Difference): A voltmeter measures the electrical potential difference (voltage) between two points in a circuit.
   - Connected in Parallel: It is always connected across (in parallel with) the component whose voltage you want to measure.
   - High Resistance: A voltmeter has very high internal resistance so that it does not draw much current from the circuit while measuring the voltage.

1. Ammeter:
   

   - Measures Current: An ammeter measures the amount of electric current flowing through a circuit.
   - Connected in Series: It is connected in series with the component or circuit where you want to measure the current.
   - Low Resistance: An ammeter has very low internal resistance to minimize its impact on the current in the circuit.

Summary:

1. A voltmeter measures voltage and is connected in parallel with the component.
   

1. An ammeter measures current and is connected in series with the circuit.
   

Both instruments are crucial for understanding and analyzing electrical circuits.