THE PRACTICE STUDIO
Go slowly. Ask why. Make it yours.
PRACTICE / Galvanometer half-deflection experiment
Half the pointer, a changing source current
A linear galvanometer is in series with R = 600 Ω and a stable ideal source. A shunt S = 120 Ω is connected across its coil; the pointer moves from 24 to 12 divisions without changing R.
What is the coil resistance G?
Organize the givens & assumptions
- R = 600 Ω
- S = 120 Ω
- Deflection ratio = 1/2
Ohmic fixed-temperature resistances; negligible source/lead resistance; same emf and series setting in both states.
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Problem: Half the pointer, a changing source current A linear galvanometer is in series with R = 600 Ω and a stable ideal source. A shunt S = 120 Ω is connected across its coil; the pointer moves from 24 to 12 divisions without changing R. Question: What is the coil resistance G? Givens: - R = 600 Ω - S = 120 Ω - Deflection ratio = 1/2 Assumptions: Ohmic fixed-temperature resistances; negligible source/lead resistance; same emf and series setting in both states. Choices (LaTeX): A. 120\ \Omega B. 100\ \Omega C. 150\ \Omega D. 480\ \Omega Ask for my approach first. Help me distinguish a physical misconception from an algebra error without revealing which choice is correct. Tutoring approach: Act as a patient physics tutor. Ask what I understand and what I have tried, then wait for my reply. Teach one step at a time; do not give the final answer or a complete solution immediately. Start with a physical picture. Define unfamiliar symbols and operators, explain signs and units, and state the model's assumptions. Give progressively stronger hints only when I need them. Ask me to predict a change before calculating it. When I finish, help me check dimensions and a limiting case, then ask one related transfer question. If information is missing or ambiguous, ask rather than inventing it. Distinguish exact results from approximations and acknowledge uncertainty.
Start with the smallest hint.
Work through it with me.
One decision at a time. Pause, predict, then unpack the algebra.
The shunt-equals-coil shortcut is a limiting result, not the defining physics of half deflection.
Translate deflection to current
Linearity lets the pointer ratio stand for the ratio of coil currents.
Use both circuit states
Combining equal branch voltage with the source loop gives the exact relation.
Evaluate the resistance
Use the stated resistances in the same unit.
For an unchanged 1.50 V test emf, the original coil current is 2 mA. After shunting, the coil voltage is 0.15 V and its current is 1 mA; the shunt adds 1.25 mA.
TRY THE IDEA AGAIN
The same coil is tested with R = 300 Ω. Which shunt gives half deflection?
YOUR LEARNING NOTE
How does this idea feel now?
Confidence is a reflection, not proof of mastery.
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