Maranon,Kim Harold T.

BSME 12 1-1 Alpha

ASSIGNMENT

In order to read the measurement readings from vernier caliper properly, you need to
remember two things before we start. For example, if a vernier caliper output a
measurement reading of 2.13 cm, this means that:
 The main scale contributes the main number(s) and one decimal place to the
reading (E.g. 2.1 cm, whereby 2 is the main number and 0.1 is the one decimal
place number)
 The vernier scale contributes the second decimal place to the reading (E.g. 0.03
cm)

Let’s examine the image of the vernier caliper readings above. We will just use a two
steps method to get the measurement reading from this:

 To obtain the main scale reading: Look at the image above, 2.1 cm is to

the immediate left of the zero on the vernier scale. Hence, the main scale
reading is 2.1 cm
 To obtain the vernier scale reading: Look at the image above and look closely
for an alignment of the scale lines of the main scale and vernier scale. In the
image above, the aligned line correspond to 3. Hence, the vernier scale reading
is 0.03 cm.
In order to obtain the final measurement reading, we will add the main scale reading
and vernier scale reading together. This will give 2.1 cm + 0.03 cm = 2.13 cm.
In a nutshell

Use the following formula:

Obtained reading=Main scale reading+Vernier scale readingObtained reading=Main scale

reading+Vernier scale reading
Let’s go through another example to ensure that you understand the above steps:
Main scale reading: 10.0 cm (Immediate left of zero)
Vernier scale reading: 0.02 cm (Alignment of scale lines)
Measurement reading: 10.02 cm
Compensating For Zero Error
In a nutshell
Use the following formula:

Correct reading=Obtained reading–Zero errorCorrect reading=Obtained reading–Zero error

where zero errorzero error can be either negative (the “0” of vernier scale is left of the
“0” of the main scale) or positive (the “0” of vernier scale is right of the “0” of the main
scale)
Explanation

Now, we shall try with zero error. If you are not familiar on how to handle zero error for
vernier calipers, I suggest that you read up on Measurement of Length.

The reading on the top is the measurement obtained and the reading at the bottom is
the zero error. Find the actual measurement. (Meaning: get rid of the zero error in the
measurement or take into account the zero error)

Measurement with zero error: 3.34 cm

Zero error: – 0.04 cm (negative because the vernier scale is to the left)

Measurement without zero error: 3.34–(–0.04)=3.383.34–(–0.04)=3.38 cm