Electrokinetic definition

Voltmeters may be divided into two classes, (a) electrostatic, (b) electrokinetic.

Another class of voltmeters comprises the electrokinetic voltmeters.

In any case of potential difference measurement it is essential not to disturb the potential difference being measured; hence it follows that in electrokinetic voltmeters the wire connecting the two points of which the potential difference is to be measured must be of very high resistance.

Any form of electrokinetic voltmeter which involves the passage of a current through the wire necessitates the expenditure of energy to maintain this current and therefore involves cost of production.