IMD non-recording (Symon’s) rain gauge – common standard specification Which of the following pairs correctly states the most commonly used IMD standard non-recording rain gauge specification (collector aperture and receiving bottle capacity)?
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A200 sq. cm collector and 4 litres bottle
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B100 sq. cm collector and 2 litres bottle
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C200 sq. cm collector and 10 litres bottle
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D100 sq. cm collector and 4 litres bottle
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ENone of these
Answer
Correct Answer: 200 sq. cm collector and 4 litres bottle
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Standardization of rain gauges ensures inter-comparable measurements across a national network. In India, the Symon’s non-recording gauge is widely deployed with specific dimensions for the collector and receiving bottle.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Non-recording gauge (manual daily reading).
- IMD standard configuration commonly issued to stations.
- Standard measuring cylinder used for reading the collected volume as rainfall depth.
Concept / Approach:The collector area determines the conversion from collected volume to rainfall depth (Depth = Volume / Area). A 200 sq. cm orifice paired with a 4 L bottle is the classic IMD non-recording specification, providing adequate storage for heavy rain events before observation time.
Step-by-Step Solution:Identify IMD’s widely used non-recording gauge setup.Match the pair to options → 200 sq. cm collector with 4 L bottle.
Verification / Alternative check:Hydrology manuals summarizing IMD practice specify a 200 cm² orifice with 4 L capacity as the standard reference for non-recording gauges.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- (b) and (d) assign the smaller 100 cm² orifice to large bottle capacities not typical of the standard.
- (c) 10 L is larger than standard practice for the commonly issued Symon’s gauge.
Common Pitfalls:Confusing non-recording Symon’s gauges with tipping-bucket or weighing gauges, which have different specifications and are used for intensity recording.
Final Answer:200 sq. cm collector and 4 litres bottle