Describe the basic characteristics of a good measuring instrument
Answers
Characteristics of any good measuring instruments are :
1. The length of the scale must be defined clearly. There shouldn't be confusions in it if we want to measure something perfectly . Also end corrections must be avoided .
2. Sensitivity : The instrument must be sensitive to even small values for that it is good to use instruments of low 'least count' . For example if we want to measure the length of an ant then we shouldn't use inch tape because it won't give you the right value as it's least count is 1 inch, which is very large in comparison to the length of the ant.
3. Accuracy : The instrument must be accurate in its values even if the same quantity is measured again. It is better to take the average value of 4-5 trials .
4. Fineness : The instrument should work fluently. If its too old it will create troubles in using it. Time to change and buy a new one.
5. Speed : The time taken to measure something must not be too long otherwise the value may change. For examples if you want to measure the temperature of something then that must be measured immediate because it may cool down on exposure to atmosphere for a long time.