Which device is used to measure potential difference across components in a circuit?

Which device is used to measure potential difference across components in a circuit?

• A. Ammeter
• B. Voltmeter
• C. Multimeter
• D. Ohmmeter

Answer: (B)

Measuring potential difference, or voltage, across circuit components is done with a voltmeter. A voltmeter is designed to sense the difference in electric potential between two points and is connected in parallel across the component so it measures the voltage without drawing significant current from the circuit. Its very high internal resistance minimizes its impact on the circuit while still showing the voltage across the element. An ammeter, in contrast, measures current and is placed in series to determine how much current flows. An ohmmeter measures resistance by applying a small current and reading the resulting voltage, typically when the circuit is unpowered. A multimeter can measure voltage, current, and resistance, but when specifically talking about measuring potential difference across components, the voltmeter is the instrument designed for that purpose.

Measuring potential difference, or voltage, across circuit components is done with a voltmeter. A voltmeter is designed to sense the difference in electric potential between two points and is connected in parallel across the component so it measures the voltage without drawing significant current from the circuit. Its very high internal resistance minimizes its impact on the circuit while still showing the voltage across the element.

An ammeter, in contrast, measures current and is placed in series to determine how much current flows. An ohmmeter measures resistance by applying a small current and reading the resulting voltage, typically when the circuit is unpowered. A multimeter can measure voltage, current, and resistance, but when specifically talking about measuring potential difference across components, the voltmeter is the instrument designed for that purpose.