Fortin Barometer is an instrument used to measure atmospheric pressure in weather studies or lab experiments involving pressures close to normal air pressure. It consists of a narrow 90 cm glass tube with a 6mm bore, closed at one end, and typically enclosed in a protective brass tube. The brass tube features a slit allowing observation of the mercury level, a milli meter-graduated scale serving as the main scale, and a sliding vernier scale for accurate measurement, adjustable via a screw. The complete apparatus is mounted on a wooden base, and note that it is supplied without mercury.
Fortin barometer is a fundamental instrument in meteorological laboratories, designed to measure atmospheric pressure with precision. The Fortin barometer is a notable example, renowned for its exceptional accuracy and reliability. It is extensively used in meteorological labs, research institutions, and educational settings for various scientific applications, including climate studies.
Experimental Objective
To measure atmospheric pressure using fortin barometer
Principle
The Fortin Barometer operates on the principle of hydrostatic pressure, where the weight of a column of fluid (mercury) is directly proportional to the atmospheric pressure.
Theory
The Fortin Barometer consists of a mercury-filled glass tube, sealed at one end, with a reservoir at the other end. The mercury column is supported by a flexible leather bag, which is connected to a screw-driven mechanism.When atmospheric pressure increases, the mercury column rises, and the leather bag is compressed. Conversely, when atmospheric pressure decreases, the mercury column falls, and the leather bag expands.The screw-driven mechanism is calibrated to measure the displacement of the mercury column, which is directly proportional to the atmospheric pressure. The pressure is typically measured in units of millibars (mb) or inches of mercury (inHg).
Features
- Mercury's high density allowing for a compact and sensitive instrument.
- Flexible leather bag enabling smooth and accurate measurement of mercury column displacement.
- Screw-driven mechanism providing precise calibration and measurement of atmospheric pressure.
