Question

State the physical quantity that is measured using the following instruments. (a) micrometer (b) beam balance (c) syringe (d) atomic clock

Short answer

(a) Length; (b) Mass; (c) Volume; (d) Time

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Use of a Micrometer

A micrometer is a precision instrument used to measure very small distances, thicknesses, or diameters of objects. It is generally used in mechanical engineering and machining for precise measurements.

Determine the Function of a Beam Balance

A beam balance is a device that measures the mass of objects by comparing the unknown mass to known masses. It typically consists of a balance beam and weights that can be adjusted to achieve equilibrium.

Understand the Purpose of a Syringe

A syringe is a tool commonly used in medical or laboratory settings. It is primarily used to inject or withdraw fluids, so it measures volumes of liquids.

Determine What an Atomic Clock Measures

An atomic clock is a timekeeping device that uses the vibrations of atoms (usually cesium or rubidium) as its resonator. It is used to measure time with high precision.

Key concepts

Micrometer Use

Micrometers are highly accurate instruments crucial in fields requiring precise measurements. These tools allow the measurement of very small distances, thicknesses, or diameters with great accuracy.
They are widely used in mechanical engineering and machining, where precision is paramount. A micrometer consists of a calibrated screw, a spindle, and a frame, which together allow measurements to be taken with an accuracy of up to one micrometer, or one-thousandth of a millimeter.

• Functionality: The micrometer screw gauge has a finely threaded screw bolt that advances or retracts a spindle linearly upon rotation. By clamping the object between the spindle and anvil, its measurement can be read from the scale.
• Applications: Due to their precision, micrometers are used for measuring components like screws, bearings, and engine parts.
• Variations: Digital micrometers have become popular for offering easier readability and added functionalities like data storage.

Beam Balance Purpose

Beam balances are classical instruments used to determine the mass of an object with considerable accuracy. They operate by achieving equilibrium between an unknown mass and a set of known masses.
The beam balance consists of a horizontal beam pivoted at its center. When objects of equal weight are placed on either side, the beam achieves balance.

• Mechanism: The beam's equilibrium is adjusted by placing standard weights on one side until it balances with the unknown mass on the other.
• Common Usage: Traditionally, beam balances are widely used in educational institutions and labs for instructional purposes.
• Limitations: While highly reliable, beam balances can be less efficient compared to modern digital balances in terms of speed and ease of use.

Syringe Measurement

Syringes are versatile tools primarily used within medical and lab settings for handling fluids. Their main purpose is to inject fluids into or withdraw fluids from the body or containers.
They also serve a critical role in accurately measuring liquid volumes, typically marked in milliliters (ml).

• Structure: A typical syringe consists of a plunger that fits snugly in a cylindrical tube. This design allows for precise control over the volume of fluid drawn in or expelled.
• Medical Use: In healthcare, syringes are essential for delivering medication, drawing blood, or administrating vaccines.
• Lab Applications: In laboratories, syringes are used in titration procedures and extracting precise liquid volumes in experiments.

Atomic Clock Function

Atomic clocks are the most precise timekeeping devices available and are pivotal in applications requiring exact time measurements. Unlike typical clocks, atomic clocks use atoms as their time-keeping element.
The most common atoms used are cesium or rubidium, whose vibrations create an incredibly steady frequency.

• Principle: These clocks measure time based on electron transition frequencies in atoms, which remain constant over time.
• Applications: They are critical in global positioning systems (GPS), telecommunications, and are used to define the International System of Units (SI) second.
• Advancements: With technological advances, optical lattice clocks offer even greater precision, marking a new frontier in timekeeping.