Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: absolute, gauge, and differential
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Pressure instruments are specified by how they reference pressure. Understanding the categories helps in selecting suitable sensors and interpreting datasheets. The standard categories are absolute, gauge, and differential—each referencing a different baseline pressure.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Absolute sensors include an internal vacuum reference; gauge sensors vent one side to atmosphere; differential sensors have two ports and output the difference. Variants like barometric sensors are special cases of absolute or gauge measurement, but the primary taxonomy remains the absolute/gauge/differential triad.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
Transducer catalogs list part numbers with suffixes -A (absolute), -G (gauge), -D (differential). Calibration procedures and labeling on process transmitters use the same categories.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Confusing measurement category with range (e.g., vacuum vs. positive pressure) or with sensing technology (piezoresistive, capacitive, etc.).
Final Answer:
absolute, gauge, and differential.
Discussion & Comments