How to make a Barometer at home?

 

Making a simple barometer at home is a fun and educational project. Here's a basic guide on how to create a homemade barometer using readily available materials:

Materials Needed:

1. A glass jar or a plastic bottle with a narrow neck

2. A flexible, transparent straw

3. Modelling clay or playdough

4. A ruler

5. An index card or heavy paper

6. Tape

7. Markers or a pen

 

Steps:

 

1. Prepare the Jar or Bottle:

Remove the cap from the jar or bottle.

Cut off the narrow neck of the bottle if using a plastic bottle.

 

2. Attach the Straw:

Attach the straw vertically to the inside surface of the jar or bottle using modelling clay or playdough. Make sure it is secure and straight.

 

3. Create the Scale:

Cut a strip of index card or heavy paper. This will serve as your scale.

Draw a scale on the strip, marking off equal divisions. You can use inches or centimetres, depending on your preference.

Label the scale with pressure values (e.g., inHg or hPa).

 

4. Attach the Scale:

Tape the scale to the outside of the jar or bottle, aligning it with the straw. Ensure that the zero point of your scale corresponds to the initial straw position.

 

5. Seal the Top:

If using a glass jar, you can seal the top with a piece of plastic wrap or a rubber balloon. Secure it with a rubber band or tape.

 

6. Observation and Calibration:

Place your homemade barometer in a location where it won't be disturbed.

As atmospheric pressure changes, the straw will move up and down. When pressure increases, the straw will go down, and when pressure decreases, the straw will rise.

 

7. Calibrate Your Barometer:

Compare the movements of your straw with local weather reports or online barometric pressure readings to calibrate your homemade barometer.

 

Notes:

Changes in atmospheric pressure are associated with weather changes. A falling straw may indicate the approach of low-pressure (stormy) weather, while a rising straw may indicate high-pressure (clear) weather.

Keep in mind that this homemade barometer provides a basic indication of atmospheric pressure changes and is not as accurate as professional barometers.

 

This DIY project is an excellent way to explore the principles behind barometric pressure and weather changes.