Re: I use exactly the same electrodes you show on...

It depends entirely on the application. If it is an analog type meter, then it needs to used divider circuits to get everything in range.

Most use either a 50 micro-amp meter or a 1 milliampmeter. If they are using a 50 micro-amp, then the current has to be divided because even 1 ma will seriously damage the meter.

To generate a voltage reading, then there has to be a series resistance. so that the maximum voltage applied will not produce more than 50 micro-amps current.

Digital meters, however, measures everything in volts ( sometimes 2 volts, sometimes other voltages ). To turn current into volts, you have to have resistors.