What happens if you connect the ammeter of a multimeter in parallel when measuring current?

Connecting the ammeter of a multimeter in parallel when measuring current can indeed cause damage to the multimeter. This is due to the fundamental design of ammeters, which are intended to measure current by being placed in series within the circuit. When connected in parallel, the ammeter effectively creates a short circuit across the terminals it is connected to because it has very low resistance. As a result, this can lead to excessive current flowing through the ammeter, potentially overheating it, damaging its internal components, or even blowing its fuse.

In contrast, when an ammeter is installed correctly in series, it allows the current to flow through it without presenting an alternate path, thus allowing for an accurate measurement without risking damage to itself or the circuit. This clear distinction in wiring is crucial for safely and effectively using multimeters in practical applications.