Moderate

A potentiometer is used to measure the emf of a cell. At null point, no current flows through _.

Correct answer: B. The cell circuit

  • A. The main circuit
  • B. The cell circuit
  • C. Both the main and cell circuits
  • D. The potentiometer wire

Explanation

At the null point of a potentiometer, the potential difference across the potentiometer wire is equal to the emf of the cell being measured. This results in zero potential difference across the galvanometer, meaning no current flows through the cell circuit. However, the main circuit, including the potentiometer wire, continues to carry current to maintain the potential difference across the potentiometer wire. Therefore, the correct answer is that no current flows through the cell circuit, while the main circuit remains active to facilitate the measurement. Option B is correct, as it accurately describes the condition at the null point. Options A, C, and D are incorrect because they suggest that no current flows through the main circuit or potentiometer wire, which is necessary for the potentiometer's operation.

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About Current Electricity

Steady current relates charge flow to potential difference, resistance and resistivity, including how temperature changes a conductor's resistance. Sources with internal resistance have terminal voltage below their emf when delivering current, and maximum power output occurs under a specific load condition rather than at zero resistance.

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