What is shunt? Explain its uses.

Hint: There is a device which allows electric current to pass at a different point to reduce the resistance of a particular path. We will answer the above question by understanding the definition of the device and know how it is connected. And then we will tell its uses.

Complete answer:
Definition: shunt is a device used to calibrate or extend the range of an ammeter.
It is connected in parallel in a circuit. We know its main need is to measure current, hence it needs low resistance and to have low resistance it must be connected in parallel. And by connecting in parallel it also provides an alternate path for the flow of electric current.

Uses of shunt:
-It is used in galvanometers to measure large currents.
-It is connected in parallel to the galvanometer in a circuit so that it behaves like an ammeter.
-It is used as a diode.
-Measure current.
-Protects the circuit.

Additional information: Capacitors are used as shunt to redirect high-frequency noise to ground before it can propagate to the load or other circuit components. It is also used in filters , it compensates the harmonics of the current to balance the unbalanced currents. Shunt has many advantages: faults made in a circuit can easily be detected , they provide excellent value for money.

Note:Shunt is a high precision device it should be used only when precise amount of current is to be known. It is a low resistance device and hence should not be connected in series with the galvanometer.