MEASUREMENTS AND INSTRUMENTS

When we measure a physical quantity, we need to consider its magnitude and then choose a suitable instrument. The magnitude of the quantity should not exceed the maximum capacity of the instrument, and the instrument must be sensitive enough to detect and give a meaningful measurement of the quantity. For eg. metre rule is used to measure the length of a book, measuring tape is used to measure the length of a table micrometer screw gauge is used to measure the diameter of a glass rod.

Error Analysis

Vernier Caliper

A vernier caliper is used to measure a small object to measure lengths of less than 10 cm. It has an accuracy / sensivity of 0.01 cm ( Measurement is accurate up to 0.01 cm) There are two pair of jaws, 1. External jaws : To measure linear and outer diameters 2. Internal jaws : To measure inner diameter Suitable for measuring internal Eg. pipes and cylindrical container, Can measure thickness of a book , depth of a test tube etc.

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