Alberta Boilers Safety Association (ABSA) Practice Test

An ammeter is a device used to measure the current flowing through a circuit. To obtain an accurate measurement, the ammeter must be connected in series with the rest of the components in the circuit. When connecting an ammeter, it is standard practice to connect the negative or black lead to the negative side of the circuit. This ensures that the current flows into the ammeter from the circuit’s negative terminal, allowing it to measure the current effectively.

By connecting the black lead to the negative side, it helps maintain the correct polarity, which is essential for the proper function of the meter. This connection ensures that the ammeter accurately reflects the current direction and magnitude as it flows through the circuit, enabling precise electrical measurements and maintaining safety by avoiding potential damage to the device.