When measuring voltage across a component, which tool is appropriate?

A voltmeter is specifically designed to measure voltage, which is the electrical potential difference between two points in a circuit. When you want to determine the voltage across a component such as a resistor, capacitor, or any electronic device, using a voltmeter enables you to do this accurately without interfering with the operation of the circuit.

While a multimeter can also measure voltage (among other quantities like current and resistance), its function depends on the mode selected. Therefore, if the focus is solely on measuring voltage, a voltmeter is the most appropriate tool because it is often designed primarily for that purpose, making it user-friendly and specific to the task.

In contrast, an ammeter is intended for measuring current, and using it to measure voltage would require it to be connected in series with the component, which is not suitable for voltage measurements. Similarly, an ohmmeter is designed for measuring resistance and will not provide a voltage reading. Therefore, while multimeters can measure voltage, the distinct nature and purpose of a voltmeter make it the most appropriate choice when the goal is to measure voltage directly across a component.