Galvanometer

Galvanometer is a scientific instrument used for detecting and measuring electric current. It was named after the Italian scientist Luigi Galvani, who conducted extensive research on bioelectricity. The galvanometer works by the principle of electromagnetic deflection, where a magnetic needle or coil is deflected under the influence of electric current flowing through a coil.

History[edit | edit source]

The Galvanometer was first described by Johann Schweigger at the University of Halle on 16 September 1820. This early version of the galvanometer was a crude instrument with a coil of wire wrapped around a compass. It was later improved upon by André-Marie Ampère, who added a fixed magnet to the device.

Types of Galvanometers[edit | edit source]

There are several types of galvanometers, including the Tangent galvanometer, the Astatic galvanometer, and the Ballistic galvanometer. Each of these types has its own unique characteristics and uses.

Tangent Galvanometer[edit | edit source]

The tangent galvanometer is a type of galvanometer that uses the tangent law of magnetism to measure electric current. It consists of a coil of insulated copper wire wound on a circular non-magnetic frame.

Astatic Galvanometer[edit | edit source]

The astatic galvanometer is a type of galvanometer that is designed to minimize the effect of the earth's magnetic field on the instrument's operation. It does this by using two magnetic needles, one above the other, with their magnetic fields opposing each other.

Ballistic Galvanometer[edit | edit source]

The ballistic galvanometer is a type of galvanometer that is designed to measure the quantity of electricity discharged through it. It is used in experiments where the total quantity of electricity needs to be measured rather than the current.

Applications[edit | edit source]

Galvanometers have a wide range of applications in various fields. They are used in physics laboratories for experiments, in industries for detecting and measuring electric current, and in medical equipment like electrocardiograms and electroencephalograms to measure the electrical activity of the heart and brain respectively.

References[edit | edit source]

Galvanometer Resources
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