Question:medium

The scale of a galvanometer is divided into 160 equal divisions. The galvanometer shows full scale deflection of \(16\text{ mA}\) and maximum voltage is \(80\text{ mV}\) . Now the range is changed so that galvanometer reads \(160\text{ V}\) . The required resistance to be connected is

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Voltmeter → always connect high resistance in series.
Updated On: May 14, 2026
  • \(9995\Omega\) in series.
  • \(4995\Omega\) in series.
  • \(9.5 \times 10^{-3}\Omega\) in parallel.
  • \(4.95 \times 10^{-3}\Omega\) in parallel.
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
To convert a galvanometer into a voltmeter of a higher range, a high resistance must be connected in series with it.
The series resistance limits the current to the galvanometer's full-scale value when the target voltage is applied.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
Ohm's Law for the whole device: \(V = I_g (G + R)\).
Resistance of galvanometer: \(G = V_g / I_g\).
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Given: Full scale current \(I_g = 16\text{ mA} = 0.016\text{ A}\).
Full scale voltage drop \(V_g = 80\text{ mV} = 0.08\text{ V}\).
First, calculate internal resistance \(G\): \[ G = \frac{V_g}{I_g} = \frac{0.08}{0.016} = 5\Omega \] Now, target voltage range \(V = 160\text{ V}\).
Apply the voltmeter formula: \[ 160 = 0.016 \times (5 + R) \] Divide by \(0.016\): \[ \frac{160}{0.016} = 5 + R \implies 10000 = 5 + R \] Solve for \(R\): \[ R = 10000 - 5 = 9995\Omega \] Since it's a voltmeter conversion, the resistance is in series.
Step 4: Final Answer:
A resistance of \(9995\Omega\) must be connected in series.
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