Pycnometers are used for measuring and comparing densities or specific gravities of liquids and solids, including soil. Pycnometer bottles are usually made of glass and have a ground glass stopper with a capillary tube for air bubbles to escape. It uses a balance to measure the density in reference to a working fluid like water or mercury.
Features
Material: It is typically made of glass, such as borosilicate glass, which is resistant to chemicals and thermal shock. Design: It consists of a small bottle with a ground-glass stopper. The stopper has a capillary tube that allows air bubbles to escape and ensures a precise, fixed volume when filled. Integrated Thermometer: The specific type shown in the image has a built-in thermometer, which is crucial for measuring the temperature of the substance. This is important because the density of a substance changes with temperature. Function: It works by measuring the mass of a known volume of liquid. The known volume of the pycnometer, which is often marked on the device, is used to calculate the density of the substance by simple weighing.