Physics Project: Study of Wheatstone Bridge Circuit
Aim
To study the working of the Wheatstone Bridge and verify its balancing condition using a
galvanometer and known resistors, and to accurately determine the value of an unknown resistor.
Introduction
The Wheatstone Bridge is a classic circuit used for precise measurement of electrical resistance. It
was first invented by Samuel Hunter Christie in 1833 and later widely adopted and improved upon
by Sir Charles Wheatstone in 1843. The circuit is based on the principle of a null or zero current
condition in a galvanometer when the bridge is balanced. This principle not only helps in measuring
unknown resistances but is also a foundation for many electronic measurement systems like strain
gauges and sensor circuits.
Requirements
- Wheatstone Bridge circuit board
- Three known resistors (R1, R2, R3)
- One unknown resistor (Rx)
- Sensitive galvanometer
- DC power supply or battery (6V or appropriate)
- Connecting wires
- Key (switch)
- Multimeter (optional, for verification)
Theory
A Wheatstone Bridge consists of four resistors arranged in a quadrilateral, forming two voltage
dividers. The condition for balance in the circuit is:
R1 / R2 = R3 / Rx
Physics Project: Study of Wheatstone Bridge Circuit
When this condition is met, no current flows through the galvanometer. This can be rearranged to
calculate the unknown resistor:
Rx = (R3 × R2) / R1
This property makes the Wheatstone Bridge especially useful for determining unknown resistances
with high accuracy.
Procedure
1. Assemble the Wheatstone Bridge circuit on a breadboard or circuit board.
2. Insert the three known resistors (R1, R2, R3) in the specified arms of the bridge.
3. Connect the unknown resistor (Rx) in the fourth arm.
4. Connect the galvanometer between points B and D (midpoints of opposite arms).
5. Connect the battery and close the key to start current flow.
6. Adjust one of the resistors (preferably a variable resistor) until the galvanometer shows
zerodeflection (null point).
7. Note the values of R1, R2, and R3.
8. Use the balancing equation to calculate Rx.
9. Optionally, verify the value of Rx using a multimeter.
Observations
S. No. | R1 (Ohm) | R2 (Ohm) | R3 (Ohm) | Rx (Calculated) (Ohm) | Galvanometer Reading
1 | 100 | 200 | 150 | 300 | Zero deflection
Precautions
- Ensure all electrical connections are secure to prevent loose contact.
- Use standard resistors with minimum tolerance for better accuracy.
Physics Project: Study of Wheatstone Bridge Circuit
- Confirm that the galvanometer is sensitive and zero-adjusted.
- Never apply voltage before completing the circuit to avoid damage.
- Repeat the procedure with different resistor combinations for validation.
Applications
- Used in sensor systems like strain gauges, pressure sensors, and thermistors.
- Used in calibration and testing of electrical instruments.
- Helps in designing accurate analog measuring devices.
- Basis of digital resistance measurement in modern electronics.
Conclusion
The Wheatstone Bridge successfully demonstrated its utility in determining unknown resistance with
high precision. The balancing condition was achieved by adjusting known resistors, and the results
aligned with theoretical predictions.
Result
The calculated value of the unknown resistor is:
Rx = (R3 × R2) / R1 = (150 × 200) / 100 = 300 Ohm
Physics Project: Study of Wheatstone Bridge Circuit
