1.
Meter Scale
A meter scale is a simple length measuring instrument used in physics laboratories. It is usually
made of steel or wood and has a length of one meter. The scale is divided into 100 equal parts,
each part representing one centimeter. Each centimeter is further divided into 10 parts called
millimeters.
The least count of a meter scale is 1 millimeter. It is used to measure the length, breadth,
height, and thickness of objects. While measuring, the eye should be placed vertically above the
mark to avoid parallax error. Meter scale is simple to use but not very accurate for very small
measurements.
2. Advantages of Wavelength Standard
Wavelength standard is based on the wavelength of light instead of physical objects like metal
rods. Earlier, length was defined using metal meter bars which could expand or contract due to
temperature changes.
Advantages of wavelength standard are:
1. It is highly accurate and reliable.
2. It does not change with time, temperature, or pressure.
3. It can be reproduced anywhere in the world.
4. It provides uniformity in measurements.
5. It is suitable for very precise scientific work.
Because of these advantages, modern length standards are based on light waves.
3. Vernier System
The vernier system is a technique used to measure small lengths more accurately than a simple
scale. It consists of two scales:
1. Main scale
2. Vernier scale
The vernier scale slides along the main scale. The principle of the vernier system is that the
difference between one main scale division and one vernier scale division is very small. This
small difference helps in measuring very small lengths accurately.
The vernier system reduces error and increases precision in measurements.
4. Vernier Caliper
A vernier caliper is a precision measuring instrument based on the vernier system. It consists of:
1. Main scale
2. Vernier scale
3. Fixed jaw
4. Movable jaw
5. Depth measuring rod
Uses of vernier caliper:
1. Measuring external diameter of objects
2. Measuring internal diameter of hollow objects
3. Measuring depth of holes
The least count of a vernier caliper is usually 0.01 centimeter or 0.1 millimeter. It is more
accurate than a meter scale.
5. Diameter of a Solid Sphere
To measure the diameter of a solid sphere, a vernier caliper or screw gauge is used. The sphere
is placed between the jaws of the instrument and gently tightened.
The diameter is measured in different directions to reduce error. The average value of all
readings is taken as the final diameter.
This method ensures better accuracy and reduces the effect of irregular shape.
6. Volume of a Cylinder
The volume of a cylinder is calculated using its radius and height.
First, the diameter of the cylinder is measured using a vernier caliper. Radius is half of the
diameter. The height of the cylinder is measured using a meter scale or vernier caliper.
The volume depends on the square of the radius and the height, so accurate measurement of
diameter is very important.
7. Screw Gauge
A screw gauge is a highly precise instrument used to measure very small dimensions. It works
on the principle of a screw. When the screw is rotated, it moves forward by a fixed distance.
Main parts of a screw gauge:
1. Pitch scale
2. Circular scale
3. Anvil
4. Spindle
5. Ratchet
The least count of a screw gauge is very small, usually 0.01 millimeter. It is used where high
accuracy is required.
8. Diameter of a Thin Wire
The diameter of a thin wire is measured using a screw gauge. The wire is placed between the
anvil and spindle. The ratchet is rotated gently to avoid deformation of the wire.
Readings are taken at different points along the wire and in different orientations. The average
of all readings gives the correct diameter.
This method is used because thin wires cannot be measured accurately with a meter scale.
9. Thickness of Metal Sheet
The thickness of a metal sheet is also measured using a screw gauge. The sheet is placed
between the anvil and spindle.
Multiple readings are taken at different points on the sheet to avoid error due to uneven
thickness. The average value is taken as the final thickness.
This method provides very accurate results.
10.Sextant
A sextant is an optical instrument used to measure the angle between two distant objects. It
works on the principle of reflection.
Main parts of a sextant include:
1. Frame
2. Index arm
3. Mirrors
4. Telescope
5. Graduated scale
The sextant is commonly used in navigation to measure the angle between a celestial object
and the horizon.
11.Application of Sextant
Applications of sextant are:
1. Determining latitude and longitude in navigation
2. Finding the position of ships at sea
3. Measuring angular distance between stars
4. Used in astronomy and surveying
5. Helpful in marine and air navigation
Sextant is very useful where modern electronic instruments are not available.
12.Characteristics of a Measuring Instrument
A good measuring instrument should have the following characteristics:
1. Accuracy
Accuracy means closeness of a measured value to the true value.
2. Precision
Precision refers to repeatability of measurements.
3. Least Count
Least count is the smallest measurement that an instrument can measure.
4. Sensitivity
Sensitivity is the ability to detect small changes in measurement.
5. Range
Range is the minimum and maximum values that can be measured.
6. Reliability
Reliability means the instrument gives consistent results over time.