Object Record
Images
Metadata
Catalog Number |
58.58 |
Object Name |
Hydrometer |
Title |
Nicholson's Hydrometer |
Artist |
Nicholson, William |
Date |
ca. 1785 |
Description |
Hydrometer consists of a buoyant brass sphere, from which weighing pans project above and below. Housed with seven weights in original wooden box, lined with felt. The weights are marked: 424, 384, 192, 96, 48, 24, 12. |
Label |
Hydrometers measure the displacement of water to gauge the relative density of liquids and solid bodies. Essential everyday tools in colonial America, they allowed shopkeepers and customs officials to determine basic product information, such as the proof (alcohol content) of liquors, the purity of sugar and salt, and the potency of drugs. |
Material |
Brass |
Dimensions |
H-7.75 Dia-3 Cir-9.5 inches |
Dimension Details |
Box: 3 x 8.25 x 3.75 |
Credit line |
American Philosophical Society |
Search Terms |
18th century eighteenth century science measurement scientific instrument trade commerce |