Which tool is essential for measuring electrical current?

The multimeter is an essential tool for measuring electrical current, among its other functionalities. It is designed to measure various electrical properties, including voltage, current, and resistance, making it versatile for both diagnostic work and general electrical measurements. When measuring electrical current specifically, the multimeter can be set to the appropriate mode to provide accurate readings of current in amperes.

In practice, while a voltmeter measures voltage and an amperometer (more commonly referred to simply as an ammeter) is specifically used to measure current, the multimeter combines multiple functions into one device, allowing electricians to obtain crucial electrical measurements without needing multiple separate tools. A thermometer, on the other hand, is unrelated to electrical measurements as it is used to measure temperature. Thus, the multimeter's capacity to measure current directly, along with its versatility, underscores its status as the essential tool for this task.