Meters and troubleshootingQuestion 1174 of 1506

Why does an iron-vane meter movement work on AC?

It rectifies the AC with diodes inside the case.
It counts the cycles and shows the average.
It has no magnet, so polarity does not matter.
It uses a heated wire that expands and pulls.

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Correct answer: It has no magnet, so polarity does not matter.

A non-magnetized iron vane is attracted to an energized coil whichever way the current flows.

Source: Lessons in Electric Circuits II: AC (Kuphaldt), 12.1: AC Voltmeters and Ammeters

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026

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