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The document outlines a physics investigatory project by K.N. Tharrun on studying the Earth's magnetic field using a tangent galvanometer. It details the objectives, theoretical foundation, construction, and experimental setup, as well as the methodology for measuring electric currents and the horizontal component of Earth's magnetic field. The project concludes with observations, sources of error, and precautions to ensure accurate results.

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6 views12 pages

Physics Pro

The document outlines a physics investigatory project by K.N. Tharrun on studying the Earth's magnetic field using a tangent galvanometer. It details the objectives, theoretical foundation, construction, and experimental setup, as well as the methodology for measuring electric currents and the horizontal component of Earth's magnetic field. The project concludes with observations, sources of error, and precautions to ensure accurate results.

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brdhayanithi786
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ECT \ A CLASS 12 PHYSICS PRO} TO STUDY THE EARTH'S MAGNETIC FIELD USING A COMPASS NEEDLE & BAR MAGNET BY PLOTING PLOTTING MAGNETIC FIELD LINES AND TANGENT GALOVOMETER y© NAME: K.N. THARRUN ROLL NO: 20702613 YEAR: 2025-26 PHYSICS EDISON G AGORAM MEMORIAL SCHOOL SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL (CBSE) [Link].190196 MANALUR, KEERAPALAYAM 608 602, CHIDAMBARM Tk., TAMILNADU. PHYSICS INVESIGATORY PROJECT “To study the earth's magnetic field using a compass needle bar magnet by plotting magnetic field lines and tangent galvanometer” NAME: K.N Tharrun CLASS: XIIC YEAR: 2025-26 CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY This is to certify that K.N Tharrun a student of Class XII-C, has successfully completed her PHYSICS project titled “To study the earth's magnetic field using a compass needle bar magnet by plotting magnetic field lines and tangent galvanometer” as per the guidelines of Central Board of Secondary Education for the academic year 2025 — 2026. It is further that this project is the individual and bonafide work of the candidate. Principal Physics Teacher Mrs. Kalyani. S Mr. Krishana Praglada Signature of External Examiner ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Through this acknowledgement I want to express my sincere gratitude towards all who gave their views, suggestions and helped me in the completion of the project, which has been a learning experience. I extend my profound thanks to Mrs, Shammi Ratna Chandrasekar, our Admin Head, for her co-operation and efforts for facilitating this project work. I extend my gratitude to our principal Mrs. Kalyani S, for her encouragement and support towards the project. I would like to express my sincere thanks to our Vice-Principal Mrs. Devaki K, for her valuable support towards the project. Talso want to thank my Physics Teacher Mr. Krishana Praglada for his valuable guidance and constant supervision. I thanks my friends for sharing necessary information and web links at every stage of my project. Signature of the Student K.N Tharrun Index Introduction to Magnetism and Earth's magnetic field Introduction to Tangent Galvanometer and its Historical Context Objective & Apparatus Theoretical Foundation Construction Details Circuit Diagram & Setup Observation Table Conclusion & Precautions Bibliography Introduction to the Tangent Galvanometer and its Historical Context The Tangent Galvanometer is a classic electromagnetic measuring instrument primarily used to measure electric current. Its operation is based on the principle that the magnetic field produced by a current-carrying coil is directly proportional to the current flowing through it. This ingenious device allows for the determination of current by comparing the magnetic field generated by the coil with the horizontal component of the Earth's magnetic field. Developed in the early 19th century, during a period of intense discovery in electricity and magnetism, it played a crucial role in establishing the quantitative relationships between electrical currents and their associated magnetic effects. The development of the galvanometer can be traced back to Hans Christian @rsted’s discovery in 1820 that electric currents create magnetic fields. This seminal observation paved the way for subsequent experiments and the creation of instruments capable of detecting and measuring these magnetic effects. Scientists like Johann Schweigger and Hermann von Helmholtz further refined the concept, leading to the sophisticated design of the Tangent Galvanometer. Its simplicity and precision, within its operational limits, made it an indispensable tool for early physicists to verify theoretical predictions and explore new phenomena in electromagnetism. The instrument provided a direct method to quantify current, which was critical for advancing the understanding of circuits, resistance, and the fundamental laws governing electricity. Understanding the Tangent Galvanometer is not merely an exercise in historical physics; it offers a tangible demonstration of fundamental electromagnetic principles. It vividly illustrates the interaction between artificially generated magnetic fields and the natural magnetic field of the Earth, providing a hands-on experience of vector addition in magnetic fields and the concept of a restoring torque. This project aims to delve into its construction, underlying theory, and practical application to determine crucial physical constants, thereby reinforcing a foundational understanding of electromagnetism. Objective & Apparatus Objectives + Todetermine the reduction factor (K) of the given tangent galvanometer. + To determine the value of the horizontal component of Earth's magnetic field (BH) using the tangent galvanometer. Tangent Galvanometer ‘An instrument for measuring electric current based on the tangent law of magnetism. Battery/Power Supply Provides the necessary electric current for the circuit. Rheostat Used to vary the current flowing through the coll Ammeter Measures the electric current in the circuit. Commutator (Reversing Key) Allows reversal of the current direction through the galvanometer coil. One-Way Key Used to switch the circuit on or off. Connecting Wires To establish the electrical connections. Theoretical Foundation: The Tangent Law and Magnetic Field Principles The operation of the Tangent Galvanometer is governed by the fundamental principle known as the Tangent Law. This law states that when a current-carrying circular coil producing a magnetic field (8) placed in a uniform external magnetic field (BH), and if these two fields are mutually perpendicular, the resultant magnetic field will cause a small magnetic needle, placed at the center of the coil, to deflect. The tangent of the angle of deflection (8) of the needle is directly proportional to the ratio of the ‘magnetic field produced by the coil to the horizontal component of the Earth's magnetic field. Mathematically, this relationship is expressed as: B= Bytané Here, B represents the magnetic field produced by the current in the galvanometer coil, and BH is the horizontal component of the Earths magnetic field. For the Tangent Law to be applicable, itis, imperative that the plane of the galvanometer coil is aligned with the local Magnetic Meridian, thus ensuring that the magnetic field generated by the coil is perpendicular to BH. The magnetic field (B) produced at the center of a circular coil with n turns, radius r, and carrying a current lis given by the formula: pon patent 2r Where 10 is the permeability of free space (a fundamental constant, approximately 4rt x 10-7 T-m/A) ‘Substituting this expression for B into the Tangent Law equation, we get pon Se = Bu tand From this equation, we can rearrange to find the current | 2rB, i ( a ) tan Hon The term in the parenthesis is a constant for a given galvanometer and is known as the Reduction Factor (K) of the Tangent Galvanometer: 2rBu Hon K Thus, the current can be expressed simply as | = K tan 8. The Reduction Factor K represents the current required to produce a deflection of 45° (since tan 45° = 1). Understanding these theoretical underpinnings is crucial for interpreting the experimental results and accurately determining BH. Construction Details Vertical Circular Coil The galvanometer consists of @ non-magnetic circular frame wound with insulated copper wire. The coil typically has multiple turns, often arranged in sections (e.9,,2, 50, 500 turns) to provide different sensitivities. The plane of the coil is accurately vertical and passes through the centre of the base. Magnetic Needle Atthe centre of the circular coil, a small, pivoted magnetic compass needle is placed. This needle is free to rotate in the horizontal plane. Its length should be small compared to the radius of the coil to ensure a uniform magnetic field across its length. Aluminium Pointer & Scale ‘Attached perpendicularly to the magnetic needle is a lightweight aluminium pointer. This pointer moves over a horizontal circular scale, which is graduated in degrees (0-90-0-90). The pointer allows for precise reading of the deflection angle. The scale is fixed, while the coil can be rotated. The entire assembly is mounted on a non-magnetic base, usually with levelling screws, to ensure the instrument is perfectly horizontal and the needle can rotate freely without friction. The base also features terminals for connecting the coil to the external circuit Circuit Diagram & Setup Orientation of the Galvanometer Place the tangent galvanometer on a horizontal surface and level it using the levelling ‘screws. Rotate the coil until its plane is exactly in the magnetic meridian. This can be achieved when the magnetic needle, in the absence of current, reads 0°-0° or ‘90*-90" on the scale. When the plane of the coil is in the magnetic ‘meridian, the magnetic field produced by the coil will be perpendicular to the Earth's horizontal ‘magnetic field. Circuit Connections Connect the tangent galvanometer, rheostat, ‘ammeter, battery, and one- ‘way key in series as shown in the circuit diagram. Ensure that the positive terminal of the battery is connected to ‘the positive terminal of ‘the ammeter, and s0 on, maintaining correct polarity where applicable. Commutator Integration Integrate the commutator (reversing key) into the circuit to allow for the reversal of current

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