How Does a Vernier Caliper Determine Precise Measurements?

In summary: Vernier_scaleIn summary, the vernier scale on a caliper works by having a main scale and a smaller, incorrect scale with a deliberate error. When the scales are aligned, the error is cancelled out, allowing for more precise measurements. This can be compared to repaying a loan where putting in a larger amount at the beginning offsets any small errors in the monthly payments. To better understand the vernier scale, there are resources available online, such as the Wikipedia entry, that explain its function and reading method.
  • #1
Yashbhatt
348
13
I have made measurements using Vernier Calipers. What I don't understand about them is the coinciding thing. How does one know the value of the last digit of the measurement by seeing which marker of the main scale coincides with the Vernier scale?
 
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  • #2
Google for "how a vernier caliper works". You'll get a bunch of hits that just tell you how to read one without explaining why it works, but mixed with them are a few that explain WHY it works. http://www.marinesite.info/2012/02/how-does-vernier-scale-work.ht isn't the best one out there, but it's OK.
 
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  • #3
The link says the page you are looking for does not exist anymore.
 
  • #5
Someone once explained it to me like this...

A vernier has a correct scale and an "incorrect" scale where the spacing between the divisions is has a deliberate small error. If the vernier is set to zero you get a misalignment between the two scales at every mark. When the vernier is set with the scales deliberately misaligned (as when measuring something) the error cancels out after a certain number of divisions and the marks come back into alignment.

Suppose you have a loan from the bank that is meant to be repaid at £100 a month. If you only repay it at $99 a month then each month you will be $1 out. If you put in an extra $7 at the outset than after 7 months you will have repaid the correct amount. If you put in $12 at the outset then after 12 months you will have repaid the correct amount etc.
 
  • #6
Yashbhatt said:
I have made measurements using Vernier Calipers. What I don't understand about them is the coinciding thing. How does one know the value of the last digit of the measurement by seeing which marker of the main scale coincides with the Vernier scale?
The vernier scale can be very confusing, both to read and to understand!
Try the wiki entry here
 

FAQ: How Does a Vernier Caliper Determine Precise Measurements?

What is the purpose of using a Vernier calliper?

The Vernier calliper is a precision measuring tool used to accurately measure the length of small objects. It is commonly used in scientific and engineering fields for precise measurements and can measure both inside and outside dimensions as well as depth.

How does a Vernier calliper work?

A Vernier calliper works by using two scales - a main scale and a Vernier scale - to measure the length of an object. The main scale is fixed and has markings in millimeters, while the Vernier scale slides along the main scale and has smaller markings that allow for more precise measurements. When the two scales are aligned, the measurement can be read from the Vernier scale to determine the object's length.

What is the difference between a Vernier calliper and a regular ruler?

A regular ruler typically has markings in centimeters or inches, which may not be precise enough for certain measurements. A Vernier calliper, on the other hand, has a much smaller scale and can measure lengths down to a fraction of a millimeter, making it more accurate for scientific and engineering purposes.

How do you read a Vernier calliper?

To read a Vernier calliper, first make sure the two scales are aligned. Then, read the measurement from the main scale in millimeters. Next, look at the Vernier scale and find the line that lines up perfectly with a line on the main scale. The measurement can then be determined by adding the millimeter reading from the main scale to the value indicated by the Vernier scale.

How can Vernier callipers be used in experiments and research?

Vernier callipers can be used in various experiments and research to measure the dimensions of small objects, such as the diameter of a cell or the thickness of a sample. They can also be used to measure the depth of a liquid or the width of a small part. Due to their high precision, Vernier callipers are an essential tool in many scientific and engineering fields.

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