Wheatstone Bridge //---DRAFT---//

Index
1. Certificate
2. Acknowledgment
3. Objective
4. Introduction to Wheatstone Bridge
5. Theory
6. Components Used
7. Working of Wheatstone Bridge
8. Applications of Wheatstone Bridge
9. Advantages and Limitations
10. Experimental Setup
11. Procedure
12. Observations and Calculations
13. Result
14. Conclusion
15. Bibliography

3.Objective:
The primary objective of this project is to study and understand the working principles and applications
of the Wheatstone Bridge, an electrical circuit used for precise measurement of unknown resistances.
This project aims to demonstrate the conditions required for bridge balance, derive the necessary
formulas, and apply the bridge circuit to determine unknown resistance values accurately. Additionally, it
seeks to explore the significance of the Wheatstone Bridge in practical applications within physics and
engineering, highlighting its relevance in measuring small resistances and detecting minute variations in
physical parameters like strain and temperature.

4.Introduction to Wheatstone Bridge:

Background of Wheatstone Bridge:
The Wheatstone Bridge, invented by Samuel Hunter Christie in 1833 and later popularized by Sir Charles
Wheatstone in 1843, is a fundamental electrical circuit used to measure unknown resistances with high
precision. Although named after Wheatstone, it was Christie who first developed the concept.
Wheatstone's role was instrumental in improving, promoting, and formalizing the bridge circuit, which is
why it eventually bore his name.
The basic design of the Wheatstone Bridge is a four-resistor network arranged in a diamond shape, with
a galvanometer connected between two of the points. By adjusting the known resistances, the bridge
can be balanced (i.e., when the voltage difference across the galvanometer becomes zero), allowing for
the accurate measurement of an unknown resistance. The key principle behind the bridge is based on
the concept of a balanced network, where the ratios of two pairs of resistances in the bridge are equal.
During the 19th century, Wheatstone Bridges were essential in early electrical and telegraph systems.
They allowed for precise resistance measurements, enabling better design and maintenance of electrical
circuits. As technology evolved, the Wheatstone Bridge found its place in various scientific and industrial
applications, including strain gauges and temperature sensors. Today, the principles of the Wheatstone
Bridge remain relevant in fields such as material science, engineering, and instrumentation, proving its
enduring significance in the realm of electrical measurement techniques.
This project delves into the working principles, mathematical formulation, and real-world applications of
the Wheatstone Bridge, showcasing its enduring utility as a precise measurement tool in physics.
History and Development of the Wheatstone Bridge:
The Wheatstone Bridge circuit was initially developed by Samuel Hunter Christie in 1833, primarily as a
tool for measuring the resistance of various materials. However, it was Sir Charles Wheatstone, a British
physicist and inventor, who popularized and refined the bridge in 1843. Wheatstone improved upon
Christie’s design, introduced mathematical precision, and actively promoted its use in electrical
measurements, which led to the circuit being named in his honor.
Wheatstone’s efforts helped establish the bridge as an essential tool for determining unknown
resistances with accuracy, making it invaluable in early electrical research and telegraphy. Over time, the
Wheatstone Bridge became a foundational technique in electronics, widely used in both laboratory and
industrial applications for its precision in measuring small resistances.

5.THEORY:
Explanation of the Wheatstone Bridge Principle:
The Wheatstone Bridge operates on the principle of a balanced electrical network, enabling precise
measurement of an unknown resistance by comparing it with known resistances. The bridge circuit
consists of four resistors arranged in a diamond shape with a power source connected across two
opposite points (usually A and C) and a galvanometer connected across the other two points (usually B
and D).
The four resistors in the bridge are arranged as follows:
 Resistors R1R_1R1 and R2R_2R2 are in one arm of the bridge.
 Resistors R3R_3R3 and RxR_xRx (where RxR_xRx is the unknown resistor) are in the opposite
arm.
When the bridge is "balanced," the potential difference between points B and D is zero, resulting in no
current flowing through the galvanometer. This occurs when the ratios of the resistances in the two arms
are equal:

Rearranging this equation gives the formula for finding the unknown resistance RxR_xRx:
In a balanced bridge, the condition holds, meaning the voltage drop across each branch is
proportional to the resistance in each arm. By adjusting the known resistors until the galvanometer
reads zero, we can precisely calculate the unknown resistance using the balance condition.
This principle of balancing voltage ratios allows the Wheatstone Bridge to achieve highly accurate
measurements, making it a powerful tool in electrical measurement and a foundational circuit in
electronics and physics.

Construction of Wheatstone Bridge:

From the above diagram, as you can see, the Wheatstone Bridge consists of four arms, two known and
two unknown resistances, and more importantly a variable resistance. The G symbol located in the
center of the circuit represents Galvanometer. And the emf source is attached to points a and c, while
the galvanometer is connected between points b and d.
Types of Wheatstone Bridges:
The Wheatstone Bridge can be classified into different types based on its design and application. The
two main types are the Basic Wheatstone Bridge and Modified Wheatstone Bridges. Below is an
overview of each type:
1. Basic Wheatstone Bridge
The Basic Wheatstone Bridge is the original configuration designed by Samuel Christie and later
popularized by Sir Charles Wheatstone. It consists of:
 Four Resistors: The circuit features four resistors arranged in a diamond shape.
o R1R_1R1 and R2R_2R2: Known resistors.
o R3R_3R3: Another known resistor.
o RxR_xRx: The unknown resistor to be measured.
 Galvanometer: A sensitive device connected between the two midpoints of the bridge (B and D)
to detect current flow. When the bridge is balanced, no current flows through the galvanometer,
indicating that the ratios of the resistances are equal.
 Power Source: A battery or voltage source is connected across points A and C.
The basic Wheatstone Bridge is widely used for educational purposes, as it effectively demonstrates the
principle of measuring resistance using a balanced network.
2. Modified Wheatstone Bridges
Modified Wheatstone Bridges include variations of the basic design to enhance functionality and
accuracy. Some common types include:
 Kelvin Bridge:
o This version is used for measuring low resistances with high precision. It incorporates an
additional pair of leads and a second galvanometer to eliminate the effect of lead and
contact resistances.
 AC Wheatstone Bridge:
o This bridge uses alternating current (AC) instead of direct current (DC) and often
incorporates capacitors and inductors for measuring impedance in AC circuits.
 Strain Gauge Wheatstone Bridge:
o Used in applications like strain measurement, this bridge integrates strain gauges as one
or more of its resistors. When the material deforms, the resistance changes, allowing for
sensitive measurements of strain.
 Temperature Compensation Bridges:
o These are designed to account for temperature variations that could affect resistance
measurements, often incorporating temperature-sensitive components to improve
accuracy.
 Bridge with Potentiometer:
 o In this modification, a potentiometer replaces one of the resistors to allow for fine
adjustments, enhancing the precision of balancing the bridge.

6.Components:
The Wheatstone Bridge consists of several key components, each serving a specific function in the
circuit. Below is a detailed description of each component:
1. Resistors
 Description: Resistors are components that resist the flow of electric current. They are
characterized by their resistance values, measured in ohms (Ω). In the Wheatstone Bridge, there
are typically four resistors: two known resistors (R1R_1R1 and R2R_2R2), one known resistor
(R3R_3R3), and one unknown resistor (RxR_xRx).
 Function:
o Known Resistors: R1R_1R1 and R2R_2R2 are adjustable resistors or fixed resistors that
are used to set the ratios for balancing the bridge. By adjusting these resistors, the user
can achieve the condition for zero current through the galvanometer.
o Unknown Resistor: RxR_xRx is the resistor whose value is to be determined. It is placed in
one arm of the bridge and is compared against the known resistors.
2. Galvanometer
 Description: A galvanometer is a sensitive instrument used to detect and measure small electric
currents. It consists of a coil suspended in a magnetic field, which causes a pointer to move in
response to the current.
 Function: The galvanometer is connected between the midpoints of the two arms of the bridge
(points B and D). When the bridge is balanced (i.e., the ratio of the resistances is equal), the
current flowing through the galvanometer is zero, indicating that the voltage across B and D is
equal. The movement of the galvanometer pointer helps the user determine when the bridge is
balanced.
3. Power Source
 Description: The power source is typically a battery or a DC voltage supply that provides the
necessary voltage to drive the current through the Wheatstone Bridge circuit.
 Function: The power source is connected across points A and C of the bridge. It creates a
potential difference that allows current to flow through the resistors. The voltage supplied by the
power source is essential for creating the necessary conditions to measure the unknown
resistance.
4. Potentiometer
 Description: A potentiometer is a three-terminal resistor with an adjustable center tap. It can be
used as a variable resistor (rheostat) or as a voltage divider.
 Function: In some Wheatstone Bridge configurations, a potentiometer may replace one of the
fixed resistors (e.g., R2R_2R2). This allows for fine-tuning of resistance values, making it easier to
 achieve a precise balance in the bridge. By adjusting the potentiometer, the user can change the
resistance in real-time, helping to find the exact point where the galvanometer reads zero.
5. Switch
 Description: A switch is an electrical component that can open or close a circuit, allowing or
interrupting the flow of current.
 Function: A switch is often included in the Wheatstone Bridge setup to control the connection to
the power source. It allows the user to easily turn the circuit on or off, preventing unnecessary
power consumption and ensuring safety during the experiment. The switch can also help in
quickly resetting the circuit for further measurements.

7.Working of Wheatstone Bridge:

The Wheatstone Bridge is a precise electrical circuit used to measure unknown resistances by comparing
them to known resistances. Below is a detailed explanation of how the bridge operates, the conditions
required for balance, and a step-by-step breakdown of the circuit's operation.
Explanation of How the Bridge Operates
The Wheatstone Bridge operates based on the principle of balancing two legs of a circuit. The basic
configuration consists of four resistors arranged in a diamond shape. The bridge is powered by a voltage
source, creating a potential difference that drives current through the resistors. The key component is
the galvanometer, which measures the current flowing through it and indicates whether the bridge is
balanced.
When the resistors are appropriately adjusted, the potential difference across the galvanometer
becomes zero, signifying that the ratio of the resistances in one leg of the bridge is equal to the ratio in
the other leg. This balance allows for the accurate measurement of the unknown resistance.
Conditions Required for the Bridge to be Balanced
For the Wheatstone Bridge to be balanced, the following conditions must be satisfied:
1. No Current Flowing Through the Galvanometer: When the bridge is balanced, the galvanometer
reads zero current, indicating that the voltage drop across both sides is equal.
2. Ratios of Resistances: The bridge will be in balance when the ratios of the known resistances to
the unknown resistance are equal, represented mathematically as:

Where:
o R1R_1R1 and R2R_2R2 are known resistors.
o R3R_3R3 is another known resistor.
o RxR_xRx is the unknown resistor.
 3. Proper Connection of Components: All components (resistors, galvanometer, and power source)
must be correctly connected as per the Wheatstone Bridge configuration.
Step-by-Step Working of the Circuit
Here’s a detailed, step-by-step process of how the Wheatstone Bridge operates:
1. Circuit Setup:
o Connect the four resistors in a diamond shape: R1R_1R1 and R2R_2R2 in one leg,
R3R_3R3 and RxR_xRx in the opposite leg.
o Connect a galvanometer between the midpoints of the two legs of the bridge (points B
and D).
o Connect a power source across points A (positive terminal) and C (negative terminal) of
the bridge.
2. Applying Voltage:
o Turn on the power source by closing the switch. This supplies voltage across the bridge
circuit, allowing current to flow through the resistors.
3. Observing Galvanometer Reading:
o Initially, there will be a current through the galvanometer. Observe the galvanometer's
needle. If it deflects to one side, it indicates that the bridge is not balanced.
4. Adjusting Known Resistors:
o To achieve a balance, adjust the known resistors R1R_1R1 and R2R_2R2 (if they are
variable resistors, like potentiometers) until the galvanometer reads zero. This may
require several iterations of adjustment.
5. Reaching Balance:
o Once the galvanometer indicates zero current, the bridge is balanced. At this point, the
potential difference between points B and D is zero, meaning that the voltage drops
across the two arms of the bridge are equal.
6. Calculating Unknown Resistance:
o With the bridge balanced, apply the formula for the unknown resistor:

By substituting the known values of R1R_1R1, R2R_2R2, and R3R_3R3, you can calculate the value of the
unknown resistance RxR_xRx.
7. Finalizing Measurements:
o Once the unknown resistance is calculated, record the values of the resistors used in the
experiment, along with the measured value of RxR_xRx.
 8.Applications of Wheatstone Bridge:
The Wheatstone Bridge is a versatile and essential tool in various fields of science and engineering. Its
ability to measure unknown resistances accurately makes it applicable in several real-world scenarios.
Below are some notable applications:
1. Measuring Unknown Resistances
One of the primary applications of the Wheatstone Bridge is to measure unknown resistances in
electrical circuits. This capability is crucial in both laboratory and industrial settings. By balancing the
bridge and using known resistors, technicians can determine the value of an unknown resistor with high
precision.
2. Strain Gauges
Strain gauges are sensors used to measure deformation or strain in materials. In this application:
 How It Works: A strain gauge is essentially a resistive element that changes its resistance when
stretched or compressed. When integrated into a Wheatstone Bridge configuration, the
resistance change can be measured very accurately.
 Applications: Strain gauges are widely used in structural engineering, aerospace, and mechanical
applications to monitor stress on bridges, aircraft wings, and machinery.
3. Temperature Sensors
The Wheatstone Bridge is used in conjunction with temperature sensors, such as thermistors or
resistance temperature detectors (RTDs).
 How It Works: These temperature-sensitive resistors change their resistance with temperature.
By incorporating them into a Wheatstone Bridge, the resistance change can be translated into
temperature readings.
 Applications: Temperature measurement in industrial processes, HVAC systems, and scientific
research.
4. Pressure Sensors
In pressure sensing applications, a diaphragm sensor can be combined with a Wheatstone Bridge.
 How It Works: When pressure is applied, the diaphragm deflects, altering the resistance of strain
gauges attached to it. The Wheatstone Bridge configuration allows for accurate measurement of
this resistance change, which correlates to the applied pressure.
 Applications: Used in medical devices, automotive sensors, and various industrial pressure
monitoring systems.
5. Load Cells
Load cells are devices used to measure weight or force.
 How It Works: They often employ strain gauges arranged in a Wheatstone Bridge configuration.
When weight is applied, the load cell deforms, changing the resistance in the strain gauges,
which can then be measured to determine the load.
  Applications: Load cells are crucial in weighing scales, industrial scales, and force measurement
applications in laboratories.
6. Bridge Circuit for AC Measurements
The Wheatstone Bridge can be modified to operate with alternating current (AC), allowing it to measure
impedance (which includes resistance, inductance, and capacitance).
 How It Works: By using capacitors and inductors in place of resistors, the AC Wheatstone Bridge
can analyze complex impedances.
 Applications: Used in audio engineering, telecommunications, and electronics testing.
7. Calibration of Instruments
The Wheatstone Bridge is often employed to calibrate various electrical instruments by providing
accurate resistance values.
 How It Works: By comparing the resistance of the calibration standard with the instrument under
test in a Wheatstone Bridge configuration, accurate adjustments can be made.
 Applications: Calibration of multimeters, ammeters, and other electrical measuring devices.

Applications of Wheatstone Bridge in Industrial and Scientific Uses

The Wheatstone Bridge is widely utilized in both industrial and scientific contexts due to its accuracy and
versatility in measuring resistances. Below are some key applications in these sectors:
Industrial Uses
1. Quality Control and Testing
o Application: Used in manufacturing processes to ensure that resistive components meet
specified tolerances.
o How It Works: By measuring the resistance of components like resistors, capacitors, or
wires, manufacturers can identify defects or variations in production.
2. Load and Weight Measurement
o Application: Load cells, which use Wheatstone Bridges, are integral in industrial weighing
scales.
o How It Works: These load cells convert force into an electrical signal by measuring the
change in resistance caused by the weight applied.
3. Pressure Measurement
o Application: Used in industrial pressure sensors for monitoring and controlling processes.
o How It Works: Strain gauges attached to a diaphragm measure changes in resistance due
to pressure variations, allowing for accurate pressure readings.
4. Process Automation
o Application: In automated systems, Wheatstone Bridges are used in sensors to monitor
various parameters like pressure, strain, and temperature.
 o How It Works: Feedback from these sensors is crucial for controlling processes in
manufacturing, HVAC systems, and robotics.
5. Resistance Measurement in Electrical Circuits
o Application: Maintenance and troubleshooting of electrical systems often involve
resistance measurements using Wheatstone Bridges.
o How It Works: Technicians can locate faults or confirm proper connections in wiring and
components by measuring resistances in the circuit.
6. Strain Measurement in Structural Health Monitoring
o Application: Used in construction and civil engineering to monitor the integrity of
structures.
o How It Works: Strain gauges bonded to structural elements measure deformations
caused by stress, helping prevent structural failures.
Scientific Uses
1. Research in Material Science
o Application: In laboratory settings, Wheatstone Bridges are used to study the electrical
properties of materials.
o How It Works: Researchers can measure how resistance changes with temperature,
strain, or other environmental factors, providing insights into material behavior.
2. Calibration of Scientific Instruments
o Application: Used to calibrate resistance measuring devices in research labs.
o How It Works: The Wheatstone Bridge provides a standard of known resistance to ensure
the accuracy of multimeters and other instruments.
3. Biomedical Applications
o Application: Wheatstone Bridges are used in various biomedical sensors, including those
for measuring blood pressure and other physiological parameters.
o How It Works: Changes in resistance from strain gauges can correlate with physiological
changes, allowing for non-invasive monitoring.
4. Environmental Monitoring
o Application: Used in sensors that measure environmental parameters like humidity and
temperature.
o How It Works: Temperature-sensitive resistors in a Wheatstone Bridge can provide
accurate readings of ambient conditions for scientific research and environmental studies.
5. Academic Research and Teaching
o Application: In educational institutions, the Wheatstone Bridge is often used as a practical
experiment to teach students about electrical measurements and circuit theory.
 o How It Works: Students learn to balance the bridge and measure unknown resistances,
gaining hands-on experience with fundamental electrical principles.
6. Electronics Testing and Development
o Application: In R&D, the Wheatstone Bridge is utilized to test and develop new electronic
components and circuits.
o How It Works: Engineers can measure and analyze the performance of resistive
components under various conditions, aiding in the design of efficient circuits.

9.Advantages and Limitations :

The Wheatstone Bridge is a widely used circuit for measuring resistances with precision. However, like
any tool, it has both advantages and limitations. Below is an overview of its benefits and constraints.
Advantages of Wheatstone Bridge Circuits
1. High Accuracy:
o The Wheatstone Bridge offers high precision in measuring unknown resistances, making it
suitable for laboratory and industrial applications where accurate measurements are
critical.
2. Sensitivity:
o The circuit can detect very small changes in resistance. This sensitivity makes it useful in
applications such as strain gauges and temperature sensors, where minute changes are
significant.
3. Versatility:
o The Wheatstone Bridge can be easily adapted to measure not only resistances but also
strain, temperature, pressure, and other physical properties by integrating various types
of sensors.
4. Simplicity:
o The basic design of the Wheatstone Bridge is straightforward, making it easy to set up and
operate. This simplicity is beneficial for educational purposes and for use in introductory
physics experiments.
5. Balance Method:
o The principle of balancing allows for a direct comparison of resistances without needing
to measure current or voltage directly, which can simplify calculations.
6. Temperature Compensation:
o Modifications can be made to the Wheatstone Bridge design to include temperature
compensation, enhancing accuracy in varying environmental conditions.
7. No Need for Calibration:
o Once set up, the bridge can provide reliable measurements without requiring frequent
recalibration, especially when using stable resistors.
Limitations of Wheatstone Bridge Circuits
1. Limited Range of Measurement:
o The accuracy of the Wheatstone Bridge is often limited to a specific range of resistances.
Very high or very low resistances can result in inaccuracies due to the circuit's design.
2. Temperature Effects:
o Resistance values can change with temperature fluctuations, affecting measurement
accuracy. If the resistors or components are not temperature-stable, the readings may
drift.
3. Calibration Needs:
o While the Wheatstone Bridge itself doesn't need frequent calibration, the known resistors
must be calibrated accurately to ensure reliable measurements.
4. Complexity in Modified Designs:
o While basic designs are simple, modifications for specialized applications (like AC
measurements) can complicate the setup and require additional knowledge to configure
properly.
5. Dependency on Resistor Quality:
o The accuracy of the bridge is highly dependent on the quality and tolerance of the
resistors used. High-precision resistors are often required for accurate measurements,
which can increase costs.
6. Need for Zeroing:
o Achieving balance often requires careful adjustment, and even minor errors in setting up
the resistors can lead to incorrect readings.
7. Limited to Linear Elements:
o The Wheatstone Bridge is primarily effective for linear resistive measurements. Non-linear
components (like diodes or transistors) do not behave predictably in this circuit.

10 Experimental Setup:
1. List of Apparatus Required

To set up and perform experiments using the Wheatstone Bridge, the following apparatus is required:

 Wheatstone Bridge Circuit Components:

o Resistors:

 2 known resistors (R1R_1R1 and R2R_2R2)

 1 known resistor (R3R_3R3)

 1 unknown resistor (RxR_xRx)

o Galvanometer: A sensitive galvanometer to measure current flow.

 o Power Source: A DC power supply or battery (e.g., 6V or 9V).

o Switch: A simple switch to turn the circuit on and off.

 Additional Components:

o Connecting Wires: Insulated copper wires to connect components.

o Breadboard or Circuit Board: For easy assembly of the circuit.

o Potentiometer (optional): To allow for fine adjustments in resistance.

 Measurement Instruments:

o Multimeter: For verifying resistance values and measuring the voltage across components.

o Ruler or Caliper: For measuring physical dimensions if using physical strain gauges or load cells.

2. Setup Diagram and Construction of the Circuit

Below is a schematic representation of a Wheatstone Bridge circuit setup:

Key Components:

 A, B, C, D, E: Junction points of the bridge.

 R1: Known resistor.

 R2: Known resistor (possibly adjustable).

 R3: Known resistor.

 R_x: Unknown resistor to be measured.

 G: Galvanometer connected between points B and D.

 Power Source: Connect between points A and C.

3. Steps to Assemble and Balance the Wheatstone Bridge

Step 1: Connect Resistors

 Place R1R_1R1 and R2R_2R2 in one arm of the bridge (A to B to C).

 Place R3R_3R3 and RxR_xRx in the opposite arm (B to D to E).

Step 2: Connect the Galvanometer

  Connect the galvanometer between points B and D. Ensure the galvanometer terminals are connected
properly.

Step 3: Connect the Power Source

 Connect the positive terminal of the power source to point A and the negative terminal to point C.

Step 4: Optional Potentiometer Connection

 If using a potentiometer for R2R_2R2, connect it appropriately and adjust its slider for fine-tuning.

Step 5: Close the Switch

 Close the switch to allow current to flow through the circuit.

Step 6: Balance the Bridge

 Observe the galvanometer reading. Adjust R1R_1R1, R2R_2R2, or the potentiometer until the
galvanometer shows zero current (balanced condition).

Step 7: Calculate Unknown Resistance

 Once balanced, use the formula:

Substitute the known values to find RxR_xRx.

4. Wheatstone Bridge and Measuring the EMF of a Cell

The Wheatstone Bridge can also be used to measure the electromotive force (EMF) of a cell by incorporating a
known resistor.

Experimental Steps:

1. Setup the Wheatstone Bridge:

o Follow the assembly steps as above, but include the cell in the circuit.

2. Replace RxR_xRx:

o Use the cell whose EMF is to be measured as the unknown resistor RxR_xRx.

3. Balance the Bridge:

o Adjust the known resistors R1R_1R1, R2R_2R2, and R3R_3R3 to balance the bridge.

4. Measure Voltage:

o The EMF of the cell can be determined using the formula:

Where V is the potential difference across R1R_1R1.

5. Take Readings:

o Once balanced, record the values and calculate the EMF of the cell.
11. Procedure
Part A: Wheatstone Bridge Setup

1. Connect the Wheatstone Bridge circuit as per the circuit diagram.

2. Insert the known resistances R1R1R1, R2R2R2, and R3R3R3 into the bridge.

3. Connect the unknown resistance R4R4R4 in the fourth arm.

4. Attach the galvanometer between points B and D of the bridge.

5. Adjust the resistances using the rheostat to balance the bridge (i.e., the galvanometer should show zero
deflection).

6. Note the values of the known resistances at the balanced condition.

7. Use the Wheatstone Bridge formula to calculate the unknown resistance.

Part B: Measuring EMF of a Cell

1. Connect the potentiometer circuit as per the diagram.

2. Adjust the rheostat to vary the current through the potentiometer wire.

3. Connect the cell of unknown EMF in parallel with a standard cell.

4. Balance the potentiometer by sliding the jockey along the wire until the galvanometer shows no
deflection.

5. Measure the balancing length l1l1l1 for the standard cell and l2l2l2 for the unknown cell.

6. Use the formula:

12. Observations and Observation Table

12. Calculations

13.Result:
1. Unknown Resistance Measurement Using Wheatstone Bridge
After setting up the Wheatstone Bridge and balancing it as described, we calculated the value of the
unknown resistance R4R_4R4 by adjusting the known resistors until there was no deflection in the
galvanometer, indicating that the bridge was balanced. Using the relationship:
and substituting the measured values, the unknown resistance R4R_4R4 was found to be:

This indicates that the unknown resistor in the circuit has a resistance of approximately 10 ohms.

2. Measurement of EMF of the Unknown Cell Using Potentiometer

By using a potentiometer setup to measure the EMF of an unknown cell, we compared the balancing
length of the unknown cell to that of a standard cell of known EMF. The formula used was:

Based on the observed balancing lengths, the EMF of the unknown cell was calculated to be approximately:

This result indicates that the unknown cell has an EMF of around 1.125 volts, demonstrating the accuracy of the
potentiometer in measuring EMF without drawing current from the cell.

14.Conclusion:
The experiment on the Wheatstone Bridge and the measurement of the EMF of a cell provided valuable insights
into the principles of electrical circuits and measurement techniques.

Summary of Findings:

1. Wheatstone Bridge:

o The unknown resistance in the circuit was accurately determined by balancing the Wheatstone
Bridge. The experiment verified that the bridge is balanced when the ratio of resistances on one
side equals the ratio on the other. The calculated value of the unknown resistance was
approximately 10 ohms, showcasing the bridge's high precision.

2. Measurement of EMF:

o The potentiometer allowed for an accurate measurement of the unknown cell's EMF by
comparing it to a standard cell. The EMF of the unknown cell was calculated to be around 1.125 V,
demonstrating the accuracy of the potentiometer in measuring EMF without drawing current
from the cell, thereby avoiding errors caused by internal resistance.

Importance of Wheatstone Bridge in Practical Applications:

The Wheatstone Bridge is an essential tool in electrical engineering and physics due to its precision in measuring
unknown resistances. It is widely used in:
  Strain Gauges: The Wheatstone Bridge is a core component in strain gauges for measuring mechanical
strain in materials, which is critical in engineering and structural applications.

 Temperature Sensors: Many temperature sensors rely on resistive changes and use Wheatstone Bridge
configurations to detect small variations accurately.

 Instrumentation: The Wheatstone Bridge is used in various instruments and experimental setups to
measure small changes in electrical resistance, ensuring high precision and reliability.

Overall, the Wheatstone Bridge and potentiometer method highlighted in this experiment are powerful
techniques in both laboratory and practical applications, demonstrating fundamental principles in physics and
electrical engineering.

15.Bibliography:
 www.tutoroot.com
 www.khanacademy.org
 http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu
 ChatGTP-04