The potential difference or EMF of a cell can be measured on the basis of

Poggendorf’s compensation principle. Here the EMF of the cell is just balanced
by an external EMF, so that no current flows in the circuit.
The cell of unknown EMF is connected as given in the circuit diagram. The
sliding contact is moved over the wire AB till no current flows through
galvanometer. Then the distance AO’ is measured. The EMF of the unknown cell
is directly proportional to the distance AO’.
Ex ∝ AO’
Then the unknown cell is replaced by a standard cell (Weston cadmium
cell, EMF is 1.0183 V) in the circuit. The sliding contact is again moved until there
is a null deflection in the galvanometer. Now the distance AO is measured. The
EMF of the standard cell is directly proportional to the distance AO.
Es ∝ AO