A wheatstone bridge is used to determine the value of unknown resistan...
Introduction:
A Wheatstone bridge is a circuit commonly used to measure unknown resistance. It consists of four resistors arranged in a diamond shape with a galvanometer connected between two junctions. By adjusting the variable resistor, the bridge can be balanced, and the unknown resistance can be determined.
Explanation:
To obtain the most precise measurement of the unknown resistance X, the resistances P and Q should be approximately equal and small. Let's understand why this is the case:
1. Balancing the bridge:
In a Wheatstone bridge, the bridge is said to be balanced when there is no current flowing through the galvanometer. This occurs when the ratio of resistances on one side of the bridge is equal to the ratio on the other side.
2. Minimizing errors:
When P and Q are approximately equal, any small changes in their resistances will have a minimal effect on the balance of the bridge. This ensures that the measurement of X is not affected by variations in P and Q.
3. Small resistance values:
Using small resistance values for P and Q helps in achieving a more sensitive balance. When the resistances are small, even small changes in their values can be detected by the galvanometer, allowing for a more accurate measurement of X.
4. Avoiding excessive current:
If P and Q are very large, it would result in excessive current flowing through the bridge, which can lead to heating and other unwanted effects. By keeping P and Q small, the current flowing through the circuit is minimized, ensuring accurate measurements without any significant heat dissipation.
Conclusion:
To obtain the most precise measurement of the unknown resistance X in a Wheatstone bridge, it is recommended to use resistances P and Q that are approximately equal and small. This minimizes errors, allows for a more sensitive balance, and avoids excessive current flow through the circuit.
A wheatstone bridge is used to determine the value of unknown resistan...
Resistance of P & Q should be approx. equal as it decreases error in experiment.