What is the Difference Between Voltmeter and Ammeter?

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The main difference between a voltmeter and an ammeter lies in the measurements they perform. An ammeter is used to measure the flow of current in an electrical circuit, while a voltmeter measures the voltage or potential difference between two points in the circuit. Here are some key differences between the two devices:

  • Function: An ammeter is used to measure current, while a voltmeter is used to measure voltage across two points in a circuit.
  • Resistance: An ammeter has low resistance, allowing the entire current of the circuit to pass through it. In contrast, a voltmeter has high internal resistance, ensuring that only a small current from the circuit flows through it. This difference in resistance also affects their accuracy, with the ammeter being more accurate and suitable for measuring current, while the voltmeter is less accurate and used for measuring voltage.
  • Connection: An ammeter is connected in series with the circuit, meaning it is in line with the circuit elements and the entire current flows through it. In contrast, a voltmeter is connected in parallel with the circuit, meaning it is connected across the device and measures the voltage without affecting the circuit's operation.
  • Steps of Measurement: Finding the current flowing through a conductor involves its resistance and the potential difference simultaneously. This is done with the help of Ohm's law and can be represented by the formula I = V/R, where I is the current. On the other hand, finding the voltage difference is done by connecting a voltmeter in parallel with the device or component.

In summary, an ammeter is used to measure the flow of current in a circuit (analog or digital), while a voltmeter is used to measure the voltage or potential difference between two points in the circuit.

Comparative Table: Voltmeter vs Ammeter

Here is a table highlighting the differences between a voltmeter and an ammeter:

Feature Voltmeter Ammeter
Purpose Measures voltage across two points in a circuit Measures current flowing through a circuit
Resistance High resistance Low resistance
Connection Connected in parallel with the circuit Connected in series with the circuit
Accuracy Less accurate, as it connects in parallel More accurate, as it connects in series
Range Range changing is possible Range changing is not possible
Symbol Denoted by "V" Denoted by "A"

Both devices are used in electrical circuits, but they serve different purposes. A voltmeter measures the voltage across two points in a circuit, while an ammeter measures the current flowing through a circuit. Voltmeters have a higher resistance and are connected in parallel with the circuit, making them less accurate than ammeters, which have a lower resistance and are connected in series with the circuit.