Basic Instruments

Up Weather Proverbs Basic Instruments Observations Modern Tools Glossary

 The invention of instruments to measure weather-related events is thousands of years old. 

Thermometers measure temperature

Barometers measure air pressure

 

This picture of two thermometers and a barometer was published in 1815. 

Hygrometers measure humidity (This sketch of one is from 1688.)

Anemometers measure wind speed (This photograph was taken in 1899.)

Weather vanes measure wind direction (This old-fashioned one is on the bow of a boat.)
Modern instruments are very different from the old ones. This vehicle is equipped with wind speed and direction sensors, and humidity and temperature sensors.

 Now you know what the instruments do, you can try this out for yourself.

Last Updated: 07/07/05