Laboratory Hydrometer

About Laboratory Hydrometer

A hydrometer is an instrument used to measure the specific gravity (relative density) of liquids. It consists of a cylindrical float that is weighted at the bottom to ensure it remains upright when placed in a liquid. The hydrometer measures how much of the instrument floats above the surface of the liquid, which correlates to the liquid's density or specific gravity.

Key Features of a Hydrometer:

• Scale: Hydrometers are typically calibrated with specific scales, such as the specific gravity scale (measuring relative density), Baum scale (measuring the density of liquids), or Brix scale (measuring sugar content in liquids).
• Material: Made of glass or plastic, with a sealed weight at the bottom to allow it to float upright.
• Calibration: The hydrometer is calibrated to give accurate readings at specific temperatures, often around 20C (68F).
• Graduations: The scale on the hydrometer is graduated in increments (usually 0.0010.005) depending on the liquid being measured.