In a potentiometer, the balanced point is obtained when:

The correct answer is Option (2) → the potential difference of the wire between the +ve end and the jockey becomes equal to the emf of the experimental cell

In a potentiometer the experimental cell is connected between the +ve end of the wire and the jockey through a galvanometer. At the balance point the galvanometer shows no deflection, so no current is drawn from the cell. Its emf is then exactly equal to the potential difference across the length of wire between the +ve end and the jockey.

Note: This question is from the pre-rationalised NCERT book (2022-23). The topic was removed from the latest NCERT book (2026-27), and it also appears to be out of the CUET 2026 syllabus.

NCERT (Pre-rationalised edition, 2022-23):
Potentiometer – “… The jockey is moved along the wire till at a point N₁, at a distance l₁ from A, there is no deflection in the galvanometer. We can apply Kirchhoff’s loop rule to the closed loop AN₁G31A and get,

    \( \displaystyle \phi\, l_1 + 0 - \varepsilon_1 = 0 \qquad (3.90) \)”

Potentiometer – “… The potentiometer has the advantage that it draws no current from the voltage source being measured.”