Why is an ammeter likely to be burnt if you connect it in parallel?

Vedclass pdf generator app on play store
Vedclass iOS app on app store
(N/A) An ammeter is designed to have a very low resistance so that it can measure current without significantly altering the circuit. When connected in parallel,the potential difference across the ammeter is the same as the potential difference across the circuit components. Due to its extremely low resistance,a very large amount of current flows through the ammeter according to Ohm's Law $(I = V/R)$. This excessive current generates significant heat $(H = I^2Rt)$,which causes the internal components of the ammeter to overheat and burn out.

Explore More

Similar Questions

$(a)$ Name an instrument that measures electric current in a circuit. Define the unit of electric current.
$(b)$ What do the following symbols mean in circuit diagrams?
$(c)$ An electric circuit consisting of a $0.5 \ m$ long nichrome wire $XY$,an ammeter,a voltmeter,four cells of $1.5 \ V$ each and a plug key was set up.
$(i)$ Draw a diagram of this electric circuit to study the relation between the potential difference maintained between the points $X$ and $Y$ and the electric current flowing through $XY$.
$(ii)$ The following graph was plotted between $V$ and $I$ values. What would be the values of $V/I$ ratios when the potential difference is $0.8 \ V$,$1.2 \ V$ and $1.6 \ V$ respectively? What conclusion do you draw from these values?

How is a voltmeter connected in a circuit?

Define electric current and state its $SI$ unit. With the help of $Ohm's$ law,explain the meaning of $1$ ohm resistance.

How will you conclude that the same potential difference (voltage) exists across three resistors connected in a parallel arrangement to a battery?

$A$ cylinder of a material is $10\, cm$ long and has a cross-section of $2\, cm^{2}$. If its resistance along the length is $20\, \Omega$,what will be its resistivity in number and units?

Vedclass Products

For Students

Vedclass Test Series

Mock tests in real JEE/NEET style with performance analysis. 5-day free trial.

Start Free Trial
For Teachers

Exam Paper Generator

Generate Set A/B/C/D exam papers from 7.5L+ questions in 2 minutes. 3 chapters free.

Try Free
For Institutes

Online Exam Module

Live online exams with unlimited students, 360° analytics & white-label branding.

See Demo