Vernier calipers and micrometer screw gauge

A/L Physics · G.C.E. Advanced Level · Grades 12–13

Aim

To take measurements with vernier calipers and a micrometer, correcting for zero error.

Apparatus

• Vernier calipers
• Micrometer screw gauge
• A ball, a rod and a wire

Method

1. Close the jaws and note the zero error.
2. Place the object between the jaws.
3. Read the main scale + vernier (or thimble) divisions × least count.
4. Subtract the zero error for the corrected value.

Conclusion

The vernier least count is 0.1 mm and the micrometer’s is 0.01 mm. Corrected reading = reading − zero error.