Question

Ammeter is used in a circuit in :

• A. parallel
• B. series
• C. in any way
• D. none of these

Hint:

Remember the connection methods for common electrical meters:
{Ammeter:} Measures electric {A}mps (Current). Connected in {S}eries (like links in a chain, so all current passes through it). It should have very {low} resistance.
{Voltmeter:} Measures electric {V}oltage (Potential Difference). Connected in {P}arallel (across the component). It should have very {high} resistance.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept: An ammeter is an instrument used to measure the electric current flowing through a component or a part of an electrical circuit. The way it is connected is crucial for accurate measurement and proper circuit operation. Step 1: What does an ammeter measure? An ammeter measures the flow of electric charge, i.e., the electric current (in Amperes). To measure the current flowing {through} a component, all that current must pass through the ammeter. Step 2: How to connect an ammeter to measure current THROUGH a component To ensure all the current flowing through a specific part of the circuit also flows through the ammeter, the ammeter must be placed directly in the path of that current. This means the ammeter is connected in series with the component or part of the circuit whose current is to be measured. If an ammeter is connected in series, the circuit is broken at one point, and the ammeter is inserted to complete the circuit. Step 3: Why not in parallel? If an ammeter were connected in parallel with a component, it would offer an alternative path for the current. An ideal ammeter has very {low} internal resistance (to avoid significantly altering the total resistance of the circuit and thus the current it's trying to measure). If connected in parallel across a component (which usually has some resistance), a very large current would flow through the low-resistance ammeter, potentially damaging the ammeter and drawing excessive current from the source. (A voltmeter, which measures voltage, is connected in parallel and has very high resistance). Step 4: Analyzing the options
(1) parallel: Incorrect. This is how a voltmeter is connected.
(2) series: Correct. An ammeter is connected in series to measure the current flowing through that part of the circuit.
(3) in any way: Incorrect. The connection method is specific for correct measurement and safety.
(4) none of these: Incorrect, as series is the correct method. Therefore, an ammeter is used in a circuit in series.