In a potentiometer experiment, the balancing length for a cell is 60 cm. When the cell is shunted by a 2Ω resistor, the balancing length becomes 40 cm. The internal resistance of the cell is: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

Potentiometer measures EMF and internal resistance. Formula: r = R(L₁ - L₂)/L₂, where R is shunt resistance, L₁ initial balancing length, L₂ after shunting. Here R=2Ω, L₁=60 cm, L₂=40 cm. Thus r = 2×(60-40)/40 = 2×20/40 = 1Ω. This derives from terminal voltage V = E - Ir and potentiometer principle V ∝ balancing length. Memory tip: 'r = R(L₁/L₂ - 1)'. This advanced numerical tests potentiometer applications, common in competitive exams for experimental physics. Always verify the formula derivation to avoid misapplication.