General Physics II LaboratoryPHY110 • Exam Preparation & Resources
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Working Formula – All Experiments

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Half Deflection Method

Working Formula

G = SR / (R − S)

Meaning of Symbols

G is galvanometer resistance, R is series resistance, and S is shunt resistance.

Example Question

During the half-deflection experiment, a series resistance R = 30 Ω and shunt resistance S = 10 Ω are used. Determine the galvanometer resistance G.

Given

  • R = 30 Ω
  • S = 10 Ω

Solution

G = SR / (R − S)

G = (10 × 30) / (30 − 10)

G = 300 / 20

Final Answer

G = 15 Ω

Try It Yourself

If R = 40 Ω and S = 10 Ω, determine G.

Meter Bridge

Working Formula

X / R = l / (100 − l)

Meaning of Symbols

X is unknown resistance, R is known resistance, and l is the balance length in cm.

Example Question

In a meter bridge, the known resistance is R = 4 Ω and the balance point is l = 40 cm from the left end. Calculate the unknown resistance X.

Given

  • R = 4 Ω
  • l = 40 cm

Solution

X / R = l / (100 − l)

X / 4 = 40 / (100 − 40)

X = 4 × 40 / 60 = 160 / 60

Final Answer

X = 2.67 Ω (approximately)

Try It Yourself

If R = 6 Ω and l = 25 cm, determine X.

Post Office Box

Working Formula

X = (P / Q) × R

Meaning of Symbols

X is unknown resistance, R is standard resistance, and P and Q are ratio arms.

Example Question

In a Post Office Box, P, Q and R are given. Determine the unknown resistance X.

Given

  • P = 2
  • Q = 1
  • R = 5 Ω

Solution

X = (P / Q) × R

X = (2 / 1) × 5

X = 2 × 5

Final Answer

X = 10 Ω

Try It Yourself

If P = 3, Q = 2 and R = 4 Ω, determine X.