Symon’s rain gauge – identify its operating type In hydrometeorological practice, a Symon’s rain gauge is classified as which type of rain gauge?
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ATipping-bucket recording gauge
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BWeighing-type recording gauge
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CFloat-type recording gauge (autographic)
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DNon-recording (manual) gauge
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ENone of these
Answer
Correct Answer: Non-recording (manual) gauge
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Rain gauges are broadly divided into recording and non-recording types. The Symon’s gauge is a classic, robust instrument widely used for long-term rainfall observations in India and other countries, especially where daily manual readings are standard practice.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Symon’s gauge comprises a collector funnel, a receiving bottle, and a calibrated measuring cylinder.
- It does not contain an automatic recording mechanism.
- Observations are typically read once or twice per day at fixed times.
Concept / Approach:Non-recording gauges collect rainfall for subsequent manual measurement of depth. Recording gauges (tipping-bucket, weighing, or float types) produce continuous charts or digital records of rainfall versus time. Symon’s gauge specifically belongs to the non-recording category.
Step-by-Step Solution:Identify function: Symon’s lacks moving recording components → non-recording.Select the matching option → (d) Non-recording (manual) gauge.
Verification / Alternative check:Standard hydrology references describe Symon’s as the IMD standard non-recording gauge used for daily totals.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- (a), (b), and (c) are recording gauges with mechanisms that log rainfall continuously.
- (e) is invalid because the correct classification is present.
Common Pitfalls:Assuming “standard gauge” implies “recording”; in many networks, the standard reference is a non-recording gauge used alongside a subset of recording gauges for intensity studies.
Final Answer:Non-recording (manual) gauge