Omaha NAPE Engineer Practice Exam

An ammeter is used to measure the current flowing through a circuit and must be connected in series with the circuit components. This series connection ensures that all the current flowing through the circuit also flows through the ammeter, allowing it to provide an accurate measurement of that current.

When an ammeter is placed in series, it becomes part of the path through which the current travels. The design of ammeters typically has a very low internal resistance, minimizing the impact on the overall circuit. If an ammeter were connected in parallel, it could create a short circuit path, leading to inaccurate readings or potentially damaging the ammeter itself.

By connecting the ammeter in series, you ensure that it accurately reflects the total current in the circuit, enabling you to assess the performance of the circuit components properly.