Question
5 Predict what would happen to the potential difference if the connecting leads of the voltmeter were swapped around. __
Answer
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(188 Votes)
Vaughn
Master · Tutor for 5 years
Answer
The magnitude of the potential difference will remain the same, but the sign will be reversed.
Explanation
## Step 1: Understanding the ConceptWhen we talk about swapping the connecting leads of a voltmeter, we are referring to reversing the polarity of the voltmeter. In other words, we are connecting the positive lead of the voltmeter to the negative terminal of the circuit and vice versa.## Step 2: Predicting the OutcomeWhen the leads of the voltmeter are swapped, the voltmeter will still measure the same magnitude of potential difference, but the sign will be reversed. This is because the potential difference (or voltage) is a scalar quantity, meaning it only has magnitude and not direction. However, the sign of the voltage indicates the direction of the electric field, which does change when the leads are swapped.