Question

Distinguish between a potentiometer and a voltmeter.

Answer 1

	Potentiometer	Voltmeter
1.	The emf of a cell, potential difference, and internal resistance are all measured with a potentiometer.	A voltmeter can be used to determine a cell's potential difference and terminal voltage. However, it cannot be used to measure the emf of a cell.
2.	It has a high level of accuracy and sensitivity.	Its accuracy and sensitivity are less as compared to a potentiometer.
3.	It is not a portable instrument.	It is a portable instrument.
4.	It does not give a direct reading.	It gives a direct reading.

Answer 2

No.	Potentiometer	Voltmeter
i.	Its resistance is infinite.	Its resistance is high but finite.
ii.	It does not draw any current from the source of known e.m.f.	It draws some current from the source of e.m.f.
iii.	The potential difference measured by it is equal to the actual potential difference (p.d.).	The potential difference measured by it is less than the actual potential difference (p.d.).
iv.	It has high sensitivity.	It has low sensitivity.
v.	It measures e.m.f as well as p.d.	It measures only p.d.
vi.	It is used to measure the internal resistance of a cell.	It cannot be used to measure the internal resistance of a cell.
vii.	It is more accurate.	It is less accurate.
viii.	It does not give a direct reading.	It gives a direct reading.
ix.	It is not portable.	It is portable.
x.	It is used to measure lower voltage values only.	It is used to measure lower as well as higher voltage values.