Question
Question: In the figure a long uniform potentiometer wire AB is having a constant potential gradient along its...
In the figure a long uniform potentiometer wire AB is having a constant potential gradient along its length. The null points for the two primary cells of emfs ε1 and ε2 connected in the manner shown are obtained at a distance of 120cm and 300cm from the end A. Find:
(i) ε2ε1 and
(ii) position of null point for the cell ε1.
iii) How is the sensitivity of a potentiometer increased?
Solution
Recall all the concepts related to the potential gradient. See the figure carefully and form the equations between the emfs of the cells connected in series. Keep in mind that the connection of cells either opposite or supporting, affects their emfs equation. And also recall all points related to the sensitivity of the potentiometer.
Complete step by step solution:
As we know that, the emf of the cell is directly proportional to the length of the potentiometer given by,
ε∝l
After removing proportional sign we get a constant k,
ε=kl
Here k be the potential gradient of the potentiometer
For null point =120cm,
As the cells are in the series with each other but connected opposite to each other, we get
ε1−ε2=120k ……….(1)
And for null point =300cm,
The cells are in the series with each other and also supporting to each other, we get
ε1+ε2=300k …………(2)
On solving equation (1) and (2), we get
ε1=210k and ε2=90k
On dividing both we get,
ε2ε1=90k210k
On further solving we get,
⇒ε2ε1=37
Therefore the answer for the first part is 37.
(ii) As we know that,
ε=kl
Here k be the potential gradient of the potentiometer.
From equation (1) and (2),
Null point for the cell ε2 is 90cm.
And, for the cell ε1, the null point is at 210cm.
iii) The sensitivity of the potentiometer can be increased by
a) By reducing the current in the circuit by using a rheostat
b) Increasing the length of the potentiometer wire
c) Decreasing the resistance of the circuit
Note: Potentiometer is defined as an instrument which is used for measuring an electromotive force (emf) by balancing emf against the potential difference that is produced by passing a known amount of current. Sensitivity of a potentiometer is defined as the smallest potential difference that is measured by using a potentiometer. By simply decreasing the potential gradient, we can increase the sensitivity.