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 main scale corresponds to 100 divisions of the circular scale. The diameter of wire from the above data is :
Least count of screw gauge
Diameter - Divisions on circular scale × least count + main scale reading
= 0.52 mm
diameter = 0.052 cm
A screw gauge (micrometer) measures small dimensions using a main scale and circular scale. The main scale gives whole millimeters, while the circular scale provides fractional parts.
Main Scale Reading (MSR) = 0 mm
Circular Scale Reading (CSR) = 52 divisions
1 mm on main scale = 100 divisions on circular scale
Least Count is the smallest measurable value, calculated as:
Diameter = MSR + (CSR × LC)
Since 1 cm = 10 mm, divide by 10:
The diameter is , matching the second option.
Vernier Calipers: Another precision instrument using a main scale and vernier scale, with least count typically 0.1 mm or 0.01 cm.
Zero Error: Screw gauges may have initial offset; positive/negative zero error must be corrected in readings.
Least Count (LC) =
Total Reading = MSR + (CSR × LC)
Zero Correction = -Zero Error