To Measure The Diameter Of Small Spherical Cylindrical Body Using Vernier Callipers

Edited By Vishal kumar | Updated on Jul 02, 2025 07:16 PM IST

There are precision instruments - Vernier calipers - that are used for measuring small linear dimensions very accurately. If one is to get the diameter of small spherical or cylindrical body using Vernier calipers, one should grasp the meaning of both main scale and Vernier scale. Calipers include fixed main scale and moving Vernier scale, which makes it possible to carry out precise measurements.

This Story also Contains

Important Terminologies
Aim of the Experiment
Theory
Procedure
Observations:
Precaution
Solved Examples Based on To Measure The Diameter Of Small Spherical Cylindrical Body Using Vernier Callipers
Summary

To Measure The Diameter Of Small Spherical Cylindrical Body Using Vernier Callipers

The Vernier caliper is a device which greatly aids in achieving accuracy. In various practical and theoretical problems within the framework of Class 12, NEET, and JEE Main exams, students preparing for such exams must have a thorough understanding as well as perfect mastery over its application because it's among their most important tools. Over the last ten years of the JEE Main exam (from 2013 to 2023), a total of fourteen questions have been asked on this concept.

A Vernier caliper is an instrument that measures internal or external dimensions and distances. It allows you to take more precise measurements than you could with regular rulers.

Important Terminologies

LEAST COUNT AND ZERO ERROR

The magnitude of the smallest measurement that can be measured by an instrument accurately is called its least count (L.C.).

The difference between one main scale division (M.S.D.) and one vernier scale division is called the least count.

i.e. L.C. = One M.S.D. – One V.S.D.

Zero Error

If there is no object between the jaws (i.e., jaws are in contact), the vernier should give zero reading. But due to some extra material on the jaws, even if there is no object between the jaws, it gives some excess reading. This excess reading is called zero error.

Zero correction: Zero correction is an invert of zero error.

Zero correction = – (Zero error)

Actual reading = observed reading – excess reading (zero error)
= observed reading + zero correction

Aim of the Experiment

To measure the diameter of a small spherical cylindrical body using Vernier Callipers.

Apparatus

Vernier callipers, a spherical body (pendulum bob) or a cylinder and a magnifying lens.

Theory

If with the body between the jaws, the zero of the vernier scale lies ahead of the Nth division of the main scale, then the main scale reading (M.S.R.) = N

If with division of the vernier scale coincides with any division of the main scale, then the vernier scale reading (V.S.R.)

= n × (L.C.) ( Here, L.C. is the least count of vernier callipers)

= n × (V.C.) ( Here, V.C. is vernier constant of vernier callipers)

And total reading, T.R. = M.S.R. + V.S.R. = N + n × (V.C.)

Procedure

1. Determine the vernier constant (V.C.) i.e. least count (L.C.) of the vernier callipers and record it stepwise.
2. Bring the movable jaw BD in close contact with the fixed jaw AC and find zero error. Do it three times and record them. If there is no zero error, record zero error nil.
3. Open the jaws, place the sphere or cylinder between the two jaws A and B and adjust the jaw DB, such that it gently grips the body without any undue pressure on it. Tight the screw S attached to the vernier scale V.

4. Note the position of the zero mark of the vernier scale on the main scale. Record the main scale reading just before the zero mark of the vernier scale. This reading ( 1 ST) is called the main scale reading (M.S.R.).
(Note the number ( n ) of the vernier scale division which coincides with some division of the main scale.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 after rotating the body by $90^{\circ}$ for measuring the diameter in a perpendicular direction.

7. Repeat steps 3,4,5 and 6 for three different positions. Record the observations in each set in a tabular form.
8. Find the total reading and apply zero correction.
9. Take the mean of different values of diameter and show that in the result with the proper unit.

Observations:

1. Vernier constant (least count) of the Vernier Callipers:

1 M.S.D. = 1 mm

10 vernier scale divisions = 9 main scale divisions
$
\begin{aligned}
& \text { i.e. } \quad 10 \text { V.S.D. }=9 \text { M.S.D. } \\
& \therefore \quad 1 \mathrm{~V} . \mathrm{S} . \mathrm{D} .=\frac{9}{10} \mathrm{M} . \mathrm{S} . \mathrm{D} . \\
& \text { Vernier Constant (V.C) }=1 \text { M.S.D. }-1 \text { V.S.D. }=1 \text { M.S.D. }-\frac{9}{10} \text { M.S.D. } \\
& =\left(1-\frac{9}{10}\right) \text { M.S.D. }=\frac{1}{10} \times 1 \text { M.S.D. } \\
& =\frac{1}{10} \times 1 \mathrm{~mm}=0.1 \mathrm{~mm}=0.01 \mathrm{~cm}
\end{aligned}
$

2. Zero error: (i) ........ cm (ii) ............cm (iii) ..........cm

Mean Zero Error (e) = ............ cm

Mean Zero Correction (c) = - (Mean Zero Error)

= .......... cm

Precaution

Make the motion of the vernier scale on the main scale very smooth (by oiling).
Find the vernier constant and zero error carefully and record them properly.
Grip the body between the jaws formerly but gently.
Take at least observation at three different places at right angles at each place.
No parallax should be there.

Solved Examples Based on To Measure The Diameter Of Small Spherical Cylindrical Body Using Vernier Callipers

Example 1: A screw gauge gives the following reading when used to measure the diameter of a wire.

Main scale reading : 0 mm

Circular scale reading: 52 divisions

Given that 1 mm on the main scale corresponds to 100 divisions of the circular scale.

The diameter (in cm) of wire from the above data is :

1) 0.052

2) 0.52

3) 0.026

4) 0.005

Solution:

Vernier constant (least count) of the Vernier Callipers:

1 M.S.D. = 1 mm

10 vernier scale divisions = 9 main scale divisions

i.e. 10 V.S.D. = 9 M.S.D.
$
\begin{aligned}
& \therefore \quad 1 \text { V.S.D. }=\frac{9}{10} \text { M.S.D. } \\
& \text { Vernier Constant (L.C.) }=1 \text { M.S.D. }-1 \text { V.S.D. }=1 \text { M.S.D. }-\frac{9}{10} \text { M.S.D. } \\
& =\left(1-\frac{9}{10}\right) \text { M.S.D. }=\frac{1}{10} \times 1 \text { M.S.D. } \\
& =\frac{1}{10} \times 1 \mathrm{~mm}=0.1 \mathrm{~mm}=0.01 \mathrm{~cm} \\
& \text { Least count of screw gauge }=\frac{1}{100} \mathrm{~mm}=0.01 \mathrm{~mm}
\end{aligned}
$

$\begin{aligned} & \text { Diameter }=\text { Division on circular scale } \times \text { least count }+ \text { main scale reading } \\ & \qquad=52 \times \frac{1}{100}+100=0.52 \mathrm{~mm} \\ & \text { diameter }=0.052 \mathrm{~cm}\end{aligned}$

Example 2: In an experiment, the angles are required to be measured using an instrument. 29 divisions of the main scale exactly coincide with the 30 divisions of the vernier scale. If the smallest division of the main scale is half-a-degree (=0.5°), then the least count of the instrument is

1) one minute

2) half minute

3) one degree

4) half degree

Solution:

As we learnt in Vernier calliper

Least count $=1$ M.S.D. -1 V.S.D.
Given 29 divisions of main scale coincide with 30 divisions of Vernier scale.

Least count $=1$ M.S.D. -1 V.S.D.

$
\begin{aligned}
& =1 M . S . D .-\frac{29}{30} M . S . D .=\frac{1}{30} M \cdot S \cdot D \\
& =\frac{1}{30} \times 0.5 \text { degree }=1 \text { minute }
\end{aligned}
$
Hence, the answer is the option (1).

$
\begin{aligned}
& \text { so } 29 \mathrm{~V} . \mathrm{S} . \mathrm{D} .=30 \mathrm{M} . \mathrm{S} . \mathrm{D} \text {. } \\
& 1 \mathrm{~V} . \mathrm{S} . \mathrm{D} .=\frac{29}{30} \mathrm{M} . \mathrm{S} . \mathrm{D} \text {. }
\end{aligned}
$

Example 3: The least count of the main scale of vernier calipers is 1 mm. Its vernier scale is divided into 10 divisions and coincides with 9 divisions of the main scale. When jaws are touching each other, the 7^th division of the vernier scale coincides with a division of the main scale, and the zero of the vernier scale is lying right side of the zero of the main scale. When this vernier is used to measure the length of a cylinder the zero of the vernier scale between 3.1 cm and 3.2 cm and 4^th VSD coincides with a main scale division. The length of the cylinder is (in cm) : (VSD is vernier scale division)

1) 3.07

2) 3.21

3) 3.20

4) 2.99

Solution:

$\begin{aligned} & \text { Least count }=1 \mathrm{~mm} \text { or } 0.01 \mathrm{~cm} \\ & \text { Zero error }=0+0.01 \times 7=0.07 \mathrm{~cm} \\ & \text { Reading }=3.1+(0.01 \times 4)-0.07 \\ & =3.1+0.04-0.07 \\ & =3.1-0.03 \\ & =3.07 \mathrm{~cm}\end{aligned}$

Hence, the answer is (3.07).

Example 4: One main scale division of a vernier calipers is 'a' cm and the $\mathrm{n}^{\text {th }}$ division of the vernier scale coincides with $(n-1)^{t h}$ division of the main scale. The least count of the calipers in mm is :

1) $\frac{10 a}{n}$
2) $\left(\frac{n-1}{10 n}\right) a$
3) $\frac{10 n a}{(n-1)}$
4) $\frac{10 a}{(n-1)}$

Solution:

As the $\mathrm{n}^{\text {th }}$ division of the vernier scale coincides with $(n-1)^{\text {th }}$ division of the main scale

$
(\mathrm{n}-1) \mathrm{a}=\mathrm{n}\left(\mathrm{a}^{\prime}\right)
$
So $\quad \Rightarrow a^{\prime}=\frac{(n-1) a}{n}$
Where $\mathrm{a}^{\prime}$ is the One main scale division of vernier calipers.

$
\begin{aligned}
& \text { S0 } \\
& \therefore \mathrm{LC}=1 \mathrm{MSD}-1 \mathrm{VSD} \\
& =\left(\mathrm{a}-\mathrm{a}^{\prime}\right) \mathrm{cm} \\
& =\mathrm{a}-\frac{(\mathrm{n}-1) \mathrm{a}}{\mathrm{n}} \\
& =\frac{\mathrm{na}-\mathrm{na}+\mathrm{a}}{\mathrm{n}}=\frac{\mathrm{a}}{\mathrm{n}} \mathrm{cm} \\
& L C=\frac{10 a}{n} \mathrm{~mm}
\end{aligned}
$

Hence, the answer is the Option (1).

Example 5: The vernier scale used for measurement has a positive zero error of 2.0 mm. If while taking a measurement it was noted that '0' on the vernier scale lies between 8.5 cm and 8.6 cm, vernier coincidence is 6, then the correct value of a measurement is _______ cm. (least count = 0.01 cm)

1) 8.56 cm

2) 8.54 cm

3) 8.58 cm

4) 8.36 cm

Solution:

Positive zero error $=0.2 \mathrm{~mm}$
Main scale reading $=8.5 \mathrm{~cm}$
Vernier scale reading $=6 \times 0.01=0.06 \mathrm{~cm}$
Final reading $=8.5+0.06-0.02=8.54 \mathrm{~cm}$
Hence, the answer is the Option (2).

Summary

To measure the object’s small cylindrical or spherical body using Vernier callipers, one should first adjust the calipers to zero and ensure the jaws are tightly closed so as to avoid any gap appearing between them. The object should then be inserted in between these jaws before closing them softly until their surfaces touch only. At this point, read the main scale and Vernier scale observing where they coincide. This gives you both the main and Vernier scales lengths as is appropriate for this purpose.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do you measure the wall thickness of a hollow cylinder using a Vernier caliper?

To measure wall thickness: 1) Measure the outer diameter of the cylinder. 2) Measure the inner diameter of the cylinder. 3) Subtract the inner diameter from the outer diameter. 4) Divide the result by 2 to get the wall thickness. Repeat measurements at different points for consistency.

2. How do you measure the diameter of a tapered object using a Vernier caliper?

For a tapered object: 1) Measure the diameter at several points along the length. 2) Record each measurement and its position along the object. 3) This will give you a profile of how the diameter changes. For a single "average" measurement, measure at the midpoint of the tapered section.

3. How do you measure the diameter of a small hole that doesn't extend through an object?

To measure a small, non-through hole: 1) Use the small protrusions on the outer edges of the caliper jaws. 2) Insert these into the hole. 3) Gently expand them to touch the sides of the hole. 4) Lock the caliper and read the measurement. This method works for holes that are accessible but don't go all the way through the object.

4. How do you verify the accuracy of a Vernier caliper?

To verify accuracy: 1) Use calibrated gauge blocks or precision spheres of known dimensions. 2) Measure these standards with the caliper. 3) Compare the caliper readings to the known dimensions. 4) Check at various points within the caliper's range. 5) If discrepancies are found, the caliper may need professional calibration.

5. What is the difference between accuracy and precision in Vernier caliper measurements?

Accuracy refers to how close a measurement is to the true value, while precision refers to the consistency of repeated measurements. A Vernier caliper can be precise (giving consistent readings) without being accurate (if it's not properly calibrated, for example).

6. What is the least count of a typical Vernier caliper?

The least count of a typical Vernier caliper is 0.1 mm or 0.05 mm, depending on its design. The least count represents the smallest measurement the instrument can accurately make and is determined by the number of divisions on the Vernier scale.

7. What is the difference between resolution and accuracy in Vernier caliper measurements?

Resolution refers to the smallest change in measurement that the Vernier caliper can detect, typically its least count (e.g., 0.05 mm). Accuracy, on the other hand, is how close the measured value is to the true value of the object being measured. A caliper can have high resolution but low accuracy if it's not properly calibrated.

8. What is the concept of "zero error" in a Vernier caliper and how is it corrected?

Zero error occurs when the zero on the Vernier scale doesn't align with the zero on the main scale when the jaws are fully closed. For positive zero error, subtract the error from each reading. For negative zero error, add the error to each reading. Modern digital calipers can be easily zeroed to eliminate this error.

9. How do you choose the appropriate Vernier caliper for a specific measurement task?

Choose a Vernier caliper based on: 1) The size range of objects to be measured. 2) The required precision (least count). 3) The type of measurements needed (internal, external, depth). 4) The environment it will be used in (digital vs. analog for wet conditions). 5) The frequency of use and durability requirements.

10. What is the purpose of the locking screw on a Vernier caliper?

The locking screw on a Vernier caliper is used to fix the position of the sliding jaw once a measurement has been taken. This allows the user to remove the caliper from the object being measured while maintaining the measurement for reading or recording.

11. What factors can contribute to measurement errors when using a Vernier caliper?

Factors contributing to measurement errors include: parallax error, improper zeroing, excessive pressure on the object, temperature variations, dirt or debris on the caliper or object, wear and tear of the caliper, and user error in reading or recording measurements.

12. What is the importance of repeatability in Vernier caliper measurements?

Repeatability is crucial in Vernier caliper measurements as it indicates the consistency and reliability of the measuring process. High repeatability means that multiple measurements of the same object under the same conditions yield very similar results, which increases confidence in the accuracy of the measurements.

13. How do you measure the outer diameter of a cylinder using a Vernier caliper?

To measure the outer diameter of a cylinder: 1) Open the main jaws wider than the cylinder's diameter. 2) Place the cylinder between the jaws. 3) Gently close the jaws until they contact the cylinder's surface. 4) Lock the caliper and read the measurement. 5) Repeat at different points along the cylinder's length for accuracy.

14. How do you measure the depth of a blind hole using a Vernier caliper?

To measure the depth of a blind hole: 1) Extend the depth probe of the caliper. 2) Place the main beam of the caliper across the top of the hole. 3) Gently lower the depth probe until it touches the bottom of the hole. 4) Lock the caliper and read the measurement on the main scale and Vernier scale.

15. Why is it important to close the jaws of the Vernier caliper gently when measuring?

It's important to close the jaws gently to avoid applying excessive pressure on the object being measured. Too much pressure can compress the object (if it's slightly soft) or damage the caliper, leading to inaccurate measurements. Gentle closure ensures the jaws just touch the object without distorting it.

16. What is parallax error and how can it affect Vernier caliper readings?

Parallax error occurs when the observer's line of sight is not perpendicular to the scale being read. This can lead to incorrect readings on the Vernier caliper. To minimize parallax error, always ensure your eye is directly above the scale when taking readings.

17. How do you ensure the Vernier caliper is properly zeroed before taking measurements?

To zero a Vernier caliper: 1) Clean the jaws. 2) Close the jaws completely. 3) For analog calipers, ensure the zero on the Vernier scale aligns with the zero on the main scale. 4) For digital calipers, press the zero/reset button when the jaws are closed. Always check zeroing before each measurement session.

18. Why might you get different diameter measurements for the same sphere?

Different diameter measurements for the same sphere could be due to: 1) The sphere not being perfectly round. 2) Inconsistent pressure applied when closing the jaws. 3) Parallax error in reading the scales. 4) Dirt or debris on the sphere or caliper jaws. 5) User error in reading or recording measurements.

19. How does temperature affect measurements with a Vernier caliper?

Temperature can affect Vernier caliper measurements due to thermal expansion or contraction of both the caliper and the object being measured. Significant temperature changes can cause materials to expand or contract, potentially leading to slight inaccuracies in measurements.

20. How do you measure the diameter of a sphere using a Vernier caliper?

To measure the diameter of a sphere: 1) Open the jaws of the caliper wider than the sphere. 2) Place the sphere between the jaws. 3) Gently close the jaws until they just touch the sphere's surface on opposite sides. 4) Lock the caliper and read the measurement. 5) Repeat the measurement at different orientations to ensure accuracy.

21. How do you measure the internal diameter of a cylinder using a Vernier caliper?

To measure the internal diameter of a cylinder: 1) Use the smaller jaws (top) of the Vernier caliper. 2) Insert these jaws into the cylinder. 3) Gently expand the jaws until they touch the inner walls of the cylinder. 4) Lock the caliper and read the measurement. 5) Repeat at different points along the cylinder's length for accuracy.

22. How do you measure the thickness of a thin sheet using a Vernier caliper?

To measure the thickness of a thin sheet: 1) Open the jaws slightly wider than the sheet's thickness. 2) Carefully insert the sheet between the jaws. 3) Gently close the jaws until they just touch both sides of the sheet. 4) Lock the caliper and read the measurement. 5) Repeat at different points on the sheet for consistency.

23. What is the purpose of the depth probe on a Vernier caliper?

The depth probe on a Vernier caliper is used to measure the depth of holes, grooves, or steps in an object. It extends from the end of the main beam and can be inserted into cavities to measure their depth accurately.

24. How do you convert between millimeters and inches on a Vernier caliper?

To convert between millimeters and inches: 1) For digital calipers, simply press the mm/inch button. 2) For analog calipers, use the conversion factor 1 inch = 25.4 mm. Multiply mm readings by 0.03937 to get inches, or multiply inch readings by 25.4 to get mm.

25. How do you measure the thickness of a curved surface using a Vernier caliper?

Measuring the thickness of a curved surface can be challenging. One approach is to: 1) Use the depth probe to measure from a flat surface to the highest point of the curve. 2) Then measure to the lowest point of the curve. 3) The difference between these two measurements gives the thickness. Alternatively, specialized attachments may be used for certain curved surfaces.

26. What are the limitations of using a Vernier caliper for very small measurements?

Limitations for very small measurements include: 1) The minimum size the jaws can accurately grip. 2) The resolution limit of the Vernier scale. 3) Potential deformation of very small objects by jaw pressure. 4) Difficulty in precisely aligning the jaws for tiny objects. For extremely small measurements, other tools like micrometers might be more suitable.

27. How do you read a Vernier caliper correctly?

To read a Vernier caliper correctly: 1) Read the main scale value to the left of the zero on the Vernier scale. 2) Find where a line on the Vernier scale aligns perfectly with a line on the main scale. 3) Add the Vernier scale reading to the main scale reading. This sum is your final measurement.

28. What is the difference between using a Vernier caliper and a micrometer for small measurements?

While both are precision instruments, Vernier calipers typically measure to 0.02 mm precision, while micrometers can measure to 0.01 mm or finer. Micrometers are often more accurate for very small measurements but have a more limited range. Calipers are more versatile, able to measure internal, external, and depth dimensions.

29. What is a Vernier caliper and why is it used to measure small objects?

A Vernier caliper is a precision measuring instrument used to measure small objects with high accuracy. It consists of a main scale and a sliding Vernier scale that allows for measurements to be taken to a fraction of a millimeter. Vernier calipers are used for small objects because they can provide more precise measurements than a regular ruler or tape measure.

30. What is the significance of the Vernier scale on a caliper?

The Vernier scale allows for more precise measurements by subdividing the main scale divisions. It enables readings between the main scale markings, typically to 0.1 mm or 0.05 mm, thus significantly improving the precision of measurements compared to a standard scale.

31. How does a Vernier caliper improve measurement precision compared to a standard ruler?

A Vernier caliper improves measurement precision by using two scales: the main scale and the Vernier scale. The Vernier scale allows for readings between the main scale divisions, typically to 0.1 mm or 0.05 mm. This subdivision of the main scale markings enables more accurate measurements than a standard ruler, which is usually limited to 1 mm precision.

32. What are the main parts of a Vernier caliper?

The main parts of a Vernier caliper include: the main scale, the Vernier scale, fixed jaw, movable jaw, depth probe, locking screw, and the main beam. Each part plays a crucial role in obtaining accurate measurements of small objects.

33. What is the difference between digital and analog Vernier calipers?

Digital Vernier calipers display measurements on an LCD screen, while analog calipers require manual reading of the scales. Digital calipers are often easier to read and can switch between metric and imperial units, but analog calipers don't require batteries and may be more durable in certain environments.

34. What precautions should be taken when measuring soft or deformable objects?

When measuring soft or deformable objects: 1) Use minimal pressure when closing the jaws. 2) Consider using the caliper's depth probe instead of the jaws if appropriate. 3) Take multiple measurements quickly to avoid object deformation over time. 4) Use alternative methods if the object is too soft for accurate caliper measurements.

35. How do you maintain and care for a Vernier caliper to ensure its accuracy?

To maintain a Vernier caliper: 1) Clean it after each use with a soft cloth. 2) Store it in a protective case. 3) Avoid dropping or jarring the instrument. 4) Lubricate moving parts occasionally with light oil. 5) Calibrate regularly. 6) Handle gently to prevent wear on the measuring surfaces.

36. How does the material of the object being measured affect the measurement process?

The material can affect measurements in several ways: 1) Soft materials may deform under jaw pressure, leading to underestimation. 2) Very hard materials may wear down the caliper jaws over time. 3) Materials that expand or contract significantly with temperature changes may give inconsistent readings. 4) Magnetic materials might interfere with digital calipers.

37. What is the importance of calibration in maintaining Vernier caliper accuracy?

Calibration is crucial because it ensures the Vernier caliper is providing accurate measurements. Regular calibration: 1) Corrects for wear and tear. 2) Adjusts for any shifts in the scale alignment. 3) Ensures consistency with standardized measurements. 4) Maintains the instrument's reliability over time.

38. What precautions should be taken when measuring objects at different temperatures?

When measuring at different temperatures: 1) Allow the caliper and object to reach thermal equilibrium with the environment. 2) Be aware that both the caliper and object may expand or contract with temperature changes. 3) For high-precision work, use temperature compensation techniques or record the temperature along with measurements.

39. How do you interpret the Vernier scale when it falls between two markings on the main scale?

When the Vernier scale falls between main scale markings: 1) Read the last whole unit on the main scale before the zero on the Vernier scale. 2) Find where a Vernier scale line perfectly aligns with a main scale line. 3) The number of this Vernier line represents the fraction to add to the main scale reading.

40. How do you account for the thickness of the Vernier caliper jaws when measuring internal dimensions?

The thickness of the jaws is automatically accounted for in internal measurements. The internal measuring surfaces are offset from the zero point by exactly the thickness of the jaws, so when you read the scale, you're getting the true internal dimension without need for additional calculations.

41. What are common mistakes to avoid when using a Vernier caliper?

Common mistakes include: 1) Not zeroing the caliper before use. 2) Applying too much pressure when measuring. 3) Misreading the Vernier scale. 4) Not accounting for parallax error. 5) Failing to clean the object and caliper before measuring. 6) Not taking multiple measurements for verification. 7) Using the wrong part of the caliper for the measurement type.

42. What is the principle behind the Vernier scale's ability to increase measurement precision?

The Vernier scale works on the principle of using slightly different spacing between divisions compared to the main scale. This creates a visual interpolation effect where the alignment of Vernier and main scale lines indicates a fraction of the main scale division, allowing for more precise readings than the main scale alone.

43. How do you ensure consistent pressure when taking repeated measurements with a Vernier caliper?

To ensure consistent pressure: 1) Use the caliper's ratchet stop or friction thimble if available. 2) Practice applying gentle, consistent pressure. 3) Let the weight of the