How do you convert a galvanometer into an ammeter? Why is an ammeter always connected in series?
Solution
A galvanometer gives full-scale deflection for a tiny current Ig. To read a larger current I, a low shunt resistance S is joined in parallel so that it carries (I−Ig) while the coil carries only Ig:
(I−Ig)S=IgG⇒S=I−IgIgG.
The combination has a very small resistance and is placed in series with the circuit, so the full current flows through it without appreciably changing that current.
CBSE Class 12 Board · 2005 · All India · Subjective